Sutherland discusses comedy, Christmas storytelling, and revisiting the 24 legacy
Summary
– Sutherland explains why Tinsel Town pushed him into new creative territory
– The actor highlights emotional parallels between the film’s father-daughter arc and his own life
– Sutherland confirms he is open to returning as Jack Bauer if the new project moves forward
Kiefer Sutherland ventured into unfamiliar territory with Tinsel Town, a holiday comedy that placed him in the bright and chaotic world of British pantomime. He praised the script for balancing humor with heartfelt storytelling and appreciated how the father-daughter dynamic connected to his own experiences as a young parent. The project allowed him to explore a genre he rarely visits while working with a cast and director he admired.
Sutherland noted that the emotional core of the film resonated deeply. The story’s focus on a father rediscovering himself through his daughter mirrored moments from his own life. While the comedic elements required stepping outside his comfort zone, he committed fully to the physical humor, musical routines, and traditional panto energy with support from his castmates.
He also said the production helped him understand why pantomime remains a cherished piece of British culture. The audience participation, long-standing traditions, and theatrical style gave him a new appreciation for the genre’s role in sustaining local theaters year-round.
When discussing recent reports about a new 24 project, Sutherland made it clear that he would welcome the chance to return as Jack Bauer. He revealed that Howard Gordon has written something compelling, but emphasized that major decisions remain in the hands of others. Still, he expressed enthusiasm about the possibility of finally telling a Bauer story with a definitive end.
Sutherland said Tinsel Town reminded him that creative reinvention is always possible and that the holiday season continues to represent renewal, connection, and the chance to begin again.
