10 fun and interesting Donald Sutherland facts

1. A Career in Acting

Donald Sutherland, born Donald McNichcol Sutherland on July 17, 1935, is a Canadian actor who hails from Saint John, New Brunswick. He has had a long and successful career in the entertainment industry, with a career spanning over five decades. He has appeared in numerous films, television shows, and stage productions, and has been nominated for numerous awards, including an Academy Award, a Golden Globe, and a BAFTA. He is best known for his roles in films such as M*A*S*H, Invasion of the Body Snatchers, and The Hunger Games.

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2. Donald Sutherland's Unique Heritage

Donald Sutherland is a multi-cultural actor, with a heritage that spans three countries. His father was of German descent, while his mother was of English and Scottish ancestry. This unique combination of cultures has undoubtedly had an influence on Sutherland's life and career, and has helped to shape him into the successful actor he is today.

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3. an illustrious career in the entertainment industry

Donald Sutherland has had an illustrious career in the entertainment industry, spanning nearly 50 years and encompassing an impressive 150 shows and films. His impressive body of work includes iconic films such as M*A*S*H, Invasion of the Body Snatchers, Ordinary People, and The Hunger Games, as well as acclaimed television series such as Dirty Sexy Money, Commander in Chief, and Designated Survivor. Sutherland has also been nominated for numerous awards, including an Academy Award, a Golden Globe, and a BAFTA. His remarkable career has earned him a place in the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Order of Canada.

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4. From Radio to Acting Success

At the tender age of 14, Donald Sutherland began his career as a radio DJ, launching a long and successful career in the entertainment industry. His early start in radio provided him with the foundation to become a renowned actor, appearing in over 150 films and television series, including the iconic films M*A*S*H and The Hunger Games. Sutherland has also been nominated for numerous awards, including an Academy Award, a Golden Globe, and a Primetime Emmy.

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5. Donald Sutherland's Engineering Degree Led to Acting Success

Donald Sutherland had a passion for engineering, so much so that he enrolled in the University of Toronto to pursue a degree in the field. However, just before he was due to graduate, he made the difficult decision to switch his major to drama, foregoing his engineering degree in order to pursue his dream of becoming an actor. Despite the risk, Sutherland's gamble paid off, and he has since gone on to become one of the most acclaimed actors of his generation.

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6. Donald Sutherland's Career as an Actor Begins with Small TV Parts

Donald Sutherland's career as an actor began with small television parts and a role in the 1965 horror anthology film "Dr Terror's House of Horrors". However, it wasn't until his performance in the 1967 hit western movie "The Dirty Dozen" that he truly gained recognition as an actor. His portrayal of the character Major John Reisman earned him critical acclaim and helped launch his career in Hollywood.

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7. A Star in His Own Right

In 1970, Donald Sutherland made his first foray into the world of starring roles with his performance in the iconic movie "MASH". His portrayal of Hawkeye Pierce in the film was met with critical acclaim, and it was the beginning of a long and successful career in Hollywood. Sutherland went on to star in a number of other films, including "Klute", "Don't Look Now", and "The Hunger Games", and has become one of the most recognizable actors of his generation.

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8. Iconic Actor of the 1970s

In the 1970s, Donald Sutherland was a major star in Hollywood, appearing in some of the decade's most iconic films. His performance in the thriller "Klute" earned him an Academy Award nomination, while his roles in "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" and "Animal House" cemented his status as a beloved actor. Sutherland's work in the 70s was praised for its range and depth, and he remains one of the most respected actors of his generation.

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9. Best-Known Actor for Complex and Deep Performances

Donald Sutherland has earned huge acclaim for his portrayal of a conflicted father in the Academy Award-winning movie "Ordinary People" and his role in the epic movie "1900" directed by the renowned Italian director Bernardo Bertolucci. His performance in "Ordinary People" earned him a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor, while his role in "1900" was praised by critics for its complexity and depth. Sutherland's performance in both films has been hailed as some of his best work, and has cemented his place as one of the most respected actors of his generation.

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10. Donald Sutherland's Iconic Voice in Anne Wheeler's Classic

In 1981, Donald Sutherland lent his iconic voice to the narration of Anne Wheeler's highly publicized film, "A War Story". The film, which was released to critical acclaim, follows the story of a Canadian soldier who is sent to fight in the Second World War. Sutherland's narration was praised for its ability to capture the emotion of the story, and the film went on to become a classic of Canadian cinema.