Actor Kiefer Sutherland, best known for his work in television and film, was taken into custody in the early hours of Monday, January 12, following an alleged confrontation with a rideshare driver in Los Angeles. Authorities confirmed the arrest to USA TODAY, stating that the incident occurred shortly after midnight in the Hollywood area.
According to police, officers responded to a radio call reporting an assault near the intersection of Sunset Boulevard and Fairfax Avenue. The situation involved a rideshare driver and a passenger later identified as the 59-year-old actor.
What Allegedly Happened
Law enforcement officials allege that Sutherland entered the rideshare vehicle and became involved in a physical altercation with the driver. Police further claim that criminal threats were made during the incident, leading to his arrest at the scene.
Importantly, authorities noted that no one involved suffered injuries serious enough to require medical attention. Representatives for the actor have been contacted for comment, but no public statement has been released so far.
The incident has since drawn widespread attention, with headlines focusing on Kiefer Sutherland arrested following an alleged dispute with a rideshare driver, marking his first major legal issue in many years.
Was Kiefer Sutherland Jailed?
Following his arrest, Sutherland was booked and later released the same day after posting a $50,000 bail. Jail records indicate he was released around 11:30 a.m. local time on January 12.
His initial court appearance has been scheduled for February 2 at the Stanley Mosk Courthouse in downtown Los Angeles. Further details about potential charges are expected to emerge during the hearing.
A Rare Legal Run-In
This arrest represents Sutherland’s first reported encounter with law enforcement in more than a decade. His last high-profile legal issue dates back to 2007, when he served 48 days in jail following a DUI conviction. Since then, the actor has largely stayed out of the public eye when it comes to legal controversies.
Who Is Kiefer Sutherland?
Born in the United Kingdom and raised in Canada, Sutherland has enjoyed a decades-long career in Hollywood. He rose to international fame for his portrayal of counterterrorism agent Jack Bauer on the hit Fox series 24, a role that earned him both an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe.
He later led the political thriller Designated Survivor, further cementing his reputation as a commanding television presence. His film résumé includes cult classics such as The Lost Boys and Stand by Me, which remain fan favorites decades after their release.
From Acting to Music
Beyond acting, Sutherland has also carved out a second career in music. In the 2000s, he co-founded the independent label Ironworks with musician Jude Cole. By 2016, he released his debut country album, Down in a Hole, and began touring as a singer-songwriter.
Speaking to USA TODAY in 2023, Sutherland described his love for music as deeply personal rather than ambitious. He explained that songwriting and performing are passions he pursues simply for the joy they bring, without grand expectations.
What Happens Next
As the case moves toward its first court date, attention remains focused on how the situation will unfold and whether formal charges will be pursued. For now, the actor has been released and is awaiting his February court appearance, as fans and the industry alike watch closely.
