Kiefer Sutherland, famed for portraying the relentless counter-terrorism agent Jack Bauer on 24, now confronts a stark real-life reversal. On January 12, 2026, the 59-year-old actor allegedly assaulted an Uber driver near Sunset Boulevard and Fairfax Avenue in Hollywood, punching him multiple times, attempting to choke him, and issuing death threats that prompted a frantic 911 call.
Witnesses described Sutherland as appearing intoxicated during the altercation. The driver escaped the vehicle and summoned help while fleeing on foot, avoiding injury that required immediate medical care. Authorities arrested Sutherland shortly after, escalating what began as a routine rideshare into a high-profile legal battle.
Facing Serious Charges
Sutherland faces felony criminal threats under California law, a charge carrying up to three years in state prison and a potential “strike” under the Three Strikes Law. Prosecutors must prove the threat was specific, immediate, and instilled reasonable fear in the victim for death or great bodily injury. His arraignment is set for February 2, 2026, in Los Angeles, where he will enter a plea and learn next steps, possibly including negotiations or trial.
A pivotal element is the Uber driver’s dash cam footage, confirmed to have recorded the incident. Such video often proves admissible in California courts for rideshare cases, providing an objective record amid conflicting accounts. It could clarify Sutherland’s actions, words, and any language barrier that fueled the dispute, directly influencing whether charges hold.
Past Legal Troubles
This marks another chapter in Sutherland’s history of alcohol-related arrests, including DUIs in 1989, 1993, and a 2007 fourth offense that resulted in jail time and rehabilitation. Despite those efforts, the pattern underscores the gravity of this violent allegation, contrasting sharply with his screen image of disciplined heroism.
Broader Implications for Rideshare Safety
The episode spotlights rising violence against rideshare drivers nationwide, where harassment, threats, and assaults are common. Surveys indicate many drivers face aggressive passengers, exposing gig workers to risks without sufficient safeguards. Sutherland’s case amplifies calls for enhanced protections and passenger accountability.
As the February 2 arraignment approaches, outcomes hinge on evidence like the dash cam and potential defenses, such as claims of insufficient threat specificity or miscommunication. A felony conviction could derail Sutherland’s career, rendering him uninsurable and sidelining him from major projects amid Hollywood’s aversion to violent offenders. Prosecutors may push for trial if footage corroborates the assault, or offer a misdemeanor plea; either path will test celebrity accountability and spotlight vulnerabilities in the rideshare industry.
Sources
“Kiefer Sutherland allegedly punched, tried to choke Uber driver before arrest in Hollywood, sources say.” ABC News, 18 Jan 2026.
“Kiefer Sutherland arrested and accused of assaulting ride-share driver in L.A.” NBC News, 13 Jan 2026.
“Kiefer Sutherland’s history of arrests and legal troubles.” USA Today, 14 Jan 2026.
“Kiefer Sutherland Arrested After Allegedly Assaulting Ride-Share Driver in Los Angeles.” Variety, 13 Jan 2026.