Richard Hardacre, ACTRA National President, is pleased to announce the ACTRA Award of Excellence will be presented to Canadian actor Kiefer Sutherland. "We are proud to present this award to Kiefer who, as a Canadian actor working in the U.S., has overcome great odds to build one of the most successful careers in Hollywood," said Hardacre. "While some of our Canadian actors struggle to find their place in film and television, Kiefer is one of our great success stories and it is an honour to recognize him not only for his unique work, but for his strong support of his fellow Canadian actors in Los Angeles," added Hardacre.

Kiefer Sutherland is the son of Canadian acting royalty Shirley Douglas and Donald Sutherland. He is the grandson of Tommy Douglas, the legendary Saskatchewan Premier, Federal New Democrat Party Leader and creator of Canada's universal health care system. Mr. Sutherland continues to speak out for the protection of public medical care for all Canadians.

"Kiefer is truly a worthy recipient of the ACTRA Award of Excellence. He values his Canadian roots as evidenced in his support and encouragement of our industry," Hardacre added.

Actor, producer and director, Kiefer Sutherland's film and television career spans 25 years and 70 films as he enters the fourth season of the hit TV series, 24. An impressive body of work that has earned him recognition with the Genie Awards, Golden Globes, Emmys, and SAG Awards.

The ACTRA Award of Excellence recognizes Mr. Sutherland's contribution to Canadian actors and the industry. The award is presented by ACTRA National every two years to an ACTRA member working predominantly in Los Angeles. The award will be handed out during a special afternoon High Tea reception at the Canadian Residence of Alain Dudoit, Consul General of Canada in Los Angeles on Tuesday September 25, 2007. ACTRA (Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists) is a national organization of professional performers working in the English-language recorded media in Canada. ACTRA represents the interests of more than 21,000 members across Canada - the foundation of Canada's highly acclaimed professional performing community. ACTRA celebrated its 60th Anniversary in 2003.