Hollywood and entertainment world headlines were dominated today by news that Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actor Kiefer Sutherland — best known for his roles in TV dramas 24 and Designated Survivor — has been arrested in Los Angeles following an alleged altercation with a ride-share driver.
The incident happened in the early hours of Monday, 12 January, near Sunset Boulevard and Fairfax Avenue in Hollywood, when police say Sutherland entered a ride-share vehicle and physically assaulted the driver and made criminal threats, according to statements from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). (Sky News)
Officers responded to a call shortly after 12:15 a.m. local time and arrested the 59-year-old actor at the scene on suspicion of felony criminal threats. The driver did not require medical treatment. (People.com)
Sutherland was booked into custody before being released a few hours later after posting $50,000 (£37,000) bond. He is scheduled to appear before the Los Angeles County Superior Court on 2 February to face the charges.
A Storied Career and Past Legal Troubles
Born in London and raised in Canada, Sutherland rose to international fame for his portrayal of counter-terrorism agent Jack Bauer in the long-running action drama 24, earning both an Emmy and a Golden Globe for the role. He has also starred in films such as Stand by Me, The Lost Boys, A Few Good Men and The Three Musketeers, and more recently played a leading role in Designated Survivor.
This latest arrest adds to a history of legal issues for Sutherland that stretches back decades — including multiple arrests related to driving under the influence and previous run-ins with police over assault-related incidents in the 2000s. (Wikipedia)
Industry Reaction and Ongoing Investigation
At the time of reporting there has been no public comment from Sutherland or his representatives. The LAPD’s Hollywood Division continues to investigate the incident, and court proceedings next month are expected to clarify the charges and any potential defence. (AP News)
Featured Image
Kiefer Sutherland speaking at the 2014 San Diego Comic-Con International for *24: Live Another Day*. Image credit: Gage Skidmore / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
