Donald Sutherland, known for his iconic role in “The Hunger Games,” passed away on June 20, 2024, in Miami at the age of 88 after a long illness. Sutherland, with a net worth of $60 million, left behind his wife of over 50 years, Francine Racette, and their five children: Kiefer, Rachel, Roeg, Rossif, and Angus.
How Did Sutherland and Racette Meet?
Donald Sutherland and Francine Racette met on the set of the 1974 Western “Alien Thunder.” Their connection was immediate, and they married in 1972. Before Racette, Sutherland had been married twice, with two of his children, Kiefer and Rachel, from his marriage to Shirley Douglas.
Who Is Francine Racette?
Francine Racette was born in Quebec and grew up in Canada. French is her first language, and she has primarily starred in French-language films. She graduated from the National Theatre School of Canada in 1966 and has had a prolific acting career. Some of her notable works include “Au revoir les enfants,” “Lumière,” and “The Disappearance.” In 1977, she was nominated for a César award for best supporting actress for her role in “Lumière.”
What Did Sutherland Say About His Wife?
In a 2008 interview with The Guardian, Sutherland praised Racette, saying, “She’s an extraordinary human.” He compared their relationship to that of Joanne Woodward and Paul Newman, emphasizing the importance of laughter and companionship. “We laugh all the time,” he shared.
How Did Sutherland’s Previous Relationships Influence His Life?
Before marrying Racette, Sutherland had a relationship with actress Jane Fonda from 1970 to 1972. His marriage to Shirley Douglas ended in 1970, but it gave him two children, Kiefer and Rachel. Sutherland’s previous relationships and experiences seemed to shape his views on love and companionship, leading to a long-lasting marriage with Racette.
How Did Their Children Follow in Their Footsteps?
Donald Sutherland and Francine Racette had three children together: Roeg, Rossif, and Angus. Each child was named after a famous director whom Sutherland admired. Kiefer and Rossif followed in their father’s footsteps, becoming actors. Rachel became a production manager, Roeg worked for the Creative Artists Agency in their Media Finance division, and Angus chose a career behind the camera.
What Was Sutherland’s View on Family and Career?
Despite his busy career, Sutherland prioritized his family. In a 2014 interview with GQ, he stated, “When people ask me where I live, I say, ‘I live with my wife.’” His wife was his main inspiration and guide. Sutherland emphasized that his decisions and actions were influenced by his wife’s truth and acceptance.
Did Racette Influence Sutherland’s Career Decisions?
Racette significantly influenced Sutherland’s career decisions. In 1999, while starring in the U.S. adaptation of “Enigma Variations,” Sutherland revealed to the Los Angeles Times that he had previously ignored his wife’s advice on a play, which turned out to be a huge success. This time, he chose to listen to her suggestion about “Enigma Variations.”
How Did Sutherland React to His Honorary Academy Award?
In 2018, Sutherland received an honorary Academy Award. He shared with Ryan Seacrest that he was eating spaghetti in Rome with Racette when he got the call. Initially, he didn’t recognize the number and answered brusquely. When he realized it was the president of the Academy, he was shocked. After hanging up, Racette humorously remarked, “We’re going to have to lose weight.”
What Legacy Did Sutherland Leave Behind?
Donald Sutherland’s legacy is marked by his extensive film career, his deep love for his family, and his enduring marriage to Francine Racette. His work spanned decades and genres, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Sutherland’s ability to balance a successful career with a strong family foundation serves as an inspiration to many.
How Will Sutherland Be Remembered?
Sutherland will be remembered not only for his memorable roles but also for his dedication to his family and his deep bond with his wife. His career, filled with accolades and iconic performances, and his personal life, marked by love and laughter, paint the picture of a man who lived fully and loved deeply.
Donald Sutherland’s death marks the end of an era, but his influence on film and his legacy through his children ensure that his memory will live on. His wife, Francine Racette, remains a testament to their enduring love story, a partnership that spanned over five decades and brought joy and inspiration to many.
