Key Takeaways
- Kiefer Sutherland was arrested on January 12, 2026, following a physical altercation with a ride-share driver in Los Angeles.
- The 59-year-old actor is accused of assaulting the driver and making criminal threats, but no one sustained injuries that required medical treatment.
- Sutherland was released on $50,000 bail and is scheduled to appear in court on February 2.
- This is Sutherland’s first reported encounter with law enforcement in over a decade, following a DUI conviction in 2007.
- Sutherland is a renowned actor, known for his roles in "Designated Survivor" and "24," and has also pursued a career as a country music singer-songwriter.
Introduction to the Incident
Kiefer Sutherland, the star of the popular TV show "Designated Survivor," was arrested early Monday, January 12, 2026, following a physical altercation with a ride-share driver in Los Angeles. According to the Los Angeles Police Department, the 59-year-old actor entered the vehicle in the Hollywood area soon after midnight and allegedly assaulted the driver. The police confirmed that Sutherland made criminal threats towards the victim, but fortunately, no one sustained injuries that required medical treatment.
Background on Kiefer Sutherland
Kiefer Sutherland is a British-born Canadian actor turned country music singer-songwriter. He is best known for his iconic roles in TV shows such as "Designated Survivor" and "24," where he played the character of counterterrorism agent Jack Bauer, earning him an Emmy and a Golden Globe. Sutherland’s film credits include notable movies like "The Lost Boys" (1987) and "Stand by Me" (1986). In addition to his acting career, Sutherland has also pursued a passion for music, releasing his debut album "Down in a Hole" in 2016 and founding his own record label, Ironworks, with musician Jude Cole in the 2000s.
The Arrest and Its Aftermath
Sutherland was arrested on January 12, 2026, and later released on $50,000 bail at around 11:30 a.m. local time. His first court hearing has been scheduled for February 2 at the Stanley Mosk Courthouse in downtown Los Angeles. This incident marks Sutherland’s first reported encounter with law enforcement in over a decade, following a DUI conviction in 2007, for which he spent 48 days in jail. Sutherland’s representatives have been reached out to for comment, but no statement has been released yet.
Sutherland’s Music Career
In recent years, Sutherland has been focusing on his music career, releasing several albums and performing at various venues. In an interview with USA TODAY in 2023, Sutherland expressed his passion for music, stating, "I love writing the songs and I love playing them, and it’s no more than that. I don’t have some out-of-perspective dream, it’s just something I really love doing." Sutherland’s music career has been a departure from his acting roots, but he has been well-received by fans and critics alike.
Conclusion
The incident involving Kiefer Sutherland and the ride-share driver is a shocking turn of events for the beloved actor. As the case unfolds, it remains to be seen how this will affect Sutherland’s career and personal life. With a scheduled court hearing on February 2, Sutherland will have to face the consequences of his actions. Despite this setback, Sutherland’s fans will likely continue to support him, appreciating his talents both on screen and on stage. As the situation develops, it will be interesting to see how Sutherland navigates this challenging time and emerges from it.