Acting Career and Achievements
Francine appeared in several notable productions, including “Le Grand Rock,” “Aussi loin que l’amour,” “Alien Thunder,” and “The Disappearance.” Her performance in the 1977 film “Lumière” earned her a nomination for the César Award for Best Supporting Actress. However, her last known role was in the 1987 film “Goodbye, Children,” marking the conclusion of her acting career.
Marriage to Donald Sutherland
Francine Racette married Donald Sutherland in 1972. They met while filming “Alien Thunder,” a Canadian drama. Donald had previously been married twice, and with Francine, he had three sons: Rossif, Roeg, and Angus Redford Sutherland. Donald also had twins, Kiefer and Rachel Sutherland, from his marriage to actress Shirley Jean Douglas.
Family and Personal Touches
Donald Sutherland and Francine Racette incorporated a unique tradition in naming their children after directors whom Donald greatly admired. This personalized approach reflected Donald’s deep passion for filmmaking, a subject he often discussed with enthusiasm, especially during events like the Lumière Film Festival in 2019.
Donald Sutherland’s Legacy
Donald Sutherland, known for his versatile roles in film and television, passed away at the age of 88 in Miami after a prolonged illness. His career spanned decades, during which he fearlessly portrayed a wide range of characters, from heroes to villains, leaving an enduring mark on the film industry worldwide.
Surviving Family
Donald Sutherland is survived by his wife, Francine Racette, and his five children: Kiefer and Rachel Sutherland from his first marriage, and Rossif, Roeg, and Angus Redford Sutherland from his marriage to Francine. Each of his children has pursued careers in various aspects of the entertainment industry, carrying forward their father’s legacy in their own unique ways.
Francine Racette and her family continue to cherish the memories of Donald Sutherland and his impactful contributions to cinema and beyond.
