Going back and forth between film and television can be tough for an actor, as the two mediums each present a unique set of challenges. That being said, there are only a few performers who have the skills to succeed in both.
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When you take a look back over his career, there’s no doubt Kiefer Sutherland falls into that category.
Not only has the actor turned in some incredible performances in both film and television, he’s succeeded in quite a few genres as well. Political thrillers, cult horror classics, and devastating coming-of-age stories all found their way onto Sutherland’s resume.
Taking a look back, we thought we’d rank the top five roles of Kiefer Sutherland’s career.
There were definitely some tough decisions, but these five rose above and made the cut.
5. Tom Kirkman – Designated Survivor
This may be Sutherland’s latest role, but there’s no reason it shouldn’t stand up as one of his best.
The series focuses on Tom Kirkman, a low-level member of the cabinet who is thrust into the Presidency after a devastating attack.ย
Sutherland portrays the newly-inaugurated Kirkman, trying to navigate the difficult nation through a time of war. By playing the relatableย everyman, Sutherland is able to connect the average audience with a realistic take on the American political system.
Honestly, if Designated Survivor wasn’t just in its first season, it would probably be higher on this list.ย
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4. Lt. Kendrick – A Few Good Men
While Tom Cruise and Jack Nicholson are the most memorable performers in A Few Good Men, it’s hard to forget what Sutherland turned in.
He wasn’t on the screen for long, but Lt. Kendrick managed to become one of the most hated characters in the entire film.ย The ability to make people feel that kind of passion is rare, and it further showed Sutherland’s skill of portraying a believable villain.
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3. The Caller – Phone Booth
Phone Booth was a startling thrill-ride, and it was Sutherland’s role as The Caller that made it terrifying.
Calm and calculated, The Caller chilled audiences with his voice. Sutherland used that demeanor and tone to keep Colin Farrell in the booth, and viewers at the edge of their seats.
It’s typically hard to crush a live-action performance with nothing but your voice, but Sutherland stole the show.
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2. David – The Lost Boys
The Lost Boys has become a cult classic over the years, and a lot of that success hinges on the left-field performance by Kieferย Sutherland.
The guy took a biker-gang vampire, and turned him into a quotable villain that movie-goers remembered for decades to come.ย
It was an odd performance to say the least, but it was one that became a staple of Sutherland’s storied career.
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1. Jack Bauer – 24
Some remember Sutherland from The Lost Boys, but most will remember his as the nation’s number one defense against terrorists, Jack Bauer.
The actor headlined FOX’s staple series – 24 – for each of its eight seasons. Jack Bauer was a household name during that time, and he spent each episode of the show taking down the bad guys and saving the lives of Americans.
While 24 could’veย been nothing more than an ordinary procedural, it was Sutherland’s inspired performance as Jack Bauer that kept people invested year after year.
Kieferย Sutherland has played many parts throughout his career, but none of them can stand up to the legacy of Jack Bauer.
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