Donald Sutherland, the renowned actor known for his roles in movies like The Hunger Games, passed away at the age of 88 in Miami after battling a long illness. Sutherland, who was married to Francine Racette for over 50 years, left behind a legacy in Hollywood and a loving family.

The couple first met while working on the 1974 Western film Alien Thunder and tied the knot in 1972. Before his marriage to Racette, Sutherland had been married twice and had two children, Kiefer and Rachel, with his ex-wife, Shirley Douglas.

Francine Racette, a Canadian actress, was born in Quebec and primarily worked in French-speaking films after graduating from the National Theatre School of Canada in 1966. Like her husband, Racette had a successful acting career, starring in productions such as Au revoir les enfants, Lumière, and The Disappearance. In 1977, she was even nominated for a César award for best supporting actress for her role in Lumière.

Described as an extraordinary human by Sutherland, Racette was not only known for her acting talent but also for her intellect and charm. Sutherland once mentioned that she was courted by intellectuals like Jean-Paul Sartre and was a muse for director Frédéric Rossif.

The couple’s marriage lasted for over five decades, during which they welcomed three children together. Their enduring relationship was marked by laughter and joy, with Sutherland often praising Racette for her ability to make him laugh every single day.

Despite the challenges they faced, including Sutherland’s previous marriages and health struggles, the bond between Donald Sutherland and Francine Racette remained strong until the actor’s passing. Their love story serves as a testament to the power of enduring love and companionship in the face of life’s trials and tribulations.