Actor reflects on Stand By Me casting as a turning point
Summary
– Kiefer Sutherland said he was living in his car before landing Stand By Me
– Rob Reiner cast him as Ace, altering the course of his career
– Sutherland shared the story in a new documentary honoring Reiner
Kiefer Sutherland opened up about a pivotal moment early in his career while appearing in the documentary ” Scenes From a Life ” with Rob Reiner. The actor revealed that when he first met Reiner during the casting process for Stand By Me, his personal circumstances were dire.
Sutherland admitted that he was living in his car at the time he was cast in the 1986 film. He described receiving the role of Ace as the best news he had ever gotten and credited the opportunity with completely changing his life.
The actor reflected on how unaware he was of the long-term impact the role would have on him. While he did not foresee the trajectory ahead, he emphasized that Reiner clearly saw potential and helped set him on a new path.
Sutherland praised Reiner’s perspective and described him as a storyteller rooted in humanity and kindness. He noted that Reiner’s worldview and intellect allowed him to create stories that resonated deeply with audiences.
Stand By Me proved to be only the beginning of a breakthrough period for Sutherland. The following year, he appeared in The Lost Boys and several other films, rapidly establishing himself in Hollywood.
Sutherland is one of many figures who paid tribute to Reiner following his passing in December 2025. The documentary includes reflections from numerous friends and collaborators honoring both Reiner and his wife.
Additional tributes poured in from across the entertainment industry, including a joint statement signed by longtime friends praising the couple’s lasting impact. Together, they were remembered as inspirational figures whose influence extended far beyond the film industry.
