But not because he wasnt interested in working with the director hed long revered, Sutherland explained.
I thought it was one of my friends making a joke.
William Freakin was responsible for me, Sutherland said of his desire to work in film.
(L-R) Pete Hammond, Kiefer Sutherland, Annabelle Dunne and Matt ParkerGetty Images via Deadline
I was working as a theater actor I was only 15, 16 years old in Toronto, Canada.
My mother was a great theater actor.
Its the community I grew up in and I was very dedicated to.
That was the actor that I wanted to be.
And I went and sawThe French Connectionwhen I was 15.
And then obviously the performances of Roy Scheider and Gene Hackman would have affected any young actor.
And it had a profound change in my life.
Decades later Sutherland received a cold call from the filmmaker out of the blue.
Assuming he was being pranked by a friend, Sutherland simply hung up.
And then about two more minutes go by and Im like, My friends arent that smart.
And I called the number back and he was laughing on the other end.
He said, I didnt think youd call back this fast.
And it was also very sweet.
And so thats exciting stuff to watch, and certainly very exciting to play.
scene, penned by Aaron Sorkin and directed by Rob Reiner.
And Mr. Nicholson just knocked it out of the park in one take.
He said, Well, were here.
And Mr. Nicholson did it again, and Rob Reiner went, Well, I guess were wrapped.
I dont know what else to do.
And everyone went home early.
The incident proved informative for the then-rising star.
And so it inspired me at least knowing that I was going to get this opportunity with Mr. Friedkin.
And just ensure youre prepared.
Check out the panel video above.
