Hollywood heavyweight Kiefer Sutherland has traded counter-terrorism for Cinderella in his latest project, diving headfirst into the world of British pantomime for the new festive comedy Tinsel Town, coming to Sky Cinema this December.
From Jack Bauer to Buttons
The actor best known for his iconic role as counter-terrorism agent Jack Bauer in 24 underwent a remarkable transformation while filming in Leeds earlier this year. Sutherland was spotted dressed as Buttons, complete with glittery eyeshadow, dancing to Katy Perry's Roar alongside the Cinderella cast during production.
Speaking from Paris about his Yorkshire experience, Sutherland expressed his affection for the region. "I ended up loving it; Leeds is a fantastic city," the Canadian actor revealed. Locals might have spotted him on weekend walks around the university or at the pub where filming took place, with Sutherland noting the warm reception from regular customers.
Greggs Addiction and Yorkshire Delights
The Hollywood star developed a particular fondness for local delicacies during his time in the north. "It was like the heavens had opened up," Sutherland said of his discovery of Greggs sausage rolls, which began during a previous tour with his band. His enthusiasm reached such heights that he arranged for the bakery's van to visit the set during filming.
Co-star Rebel Wilson similarly embraced Yorkshire culture, attempting the local accent for her role as choreographer Jill. "The Yorkshire accent is hard," Wilson admitted, though she gave her best effort with classic lines like "Hiya luv!" She also joined Sutherland in appreciating Greggs, confessing: "I can't go past a Greggs sausage roll but I also like their doughnuts any time of the day."
A-Listers in Yorkshire
Directed by Chris Foggin (Bank of Dave, Fisherman's Friends), Tinsel Town presents a feelgood family comedy about washed-up Hollywood action star Bradley Mack, played by Sutherland. Thinking a West End stint will revive his career, Mack instead finds himself in a small theatre production of Cinderella in the fictional northern town of Stoneford.
"It's funny to watch his descent into actor hell," Sutherland noted, though the film also delivers emotional depth as Bradley realises he needs to improve his relationship with his semi-estranged daughter.
The ensemble cast boasts British acting royalty including Derek Jacobi and Meera Syal, who brings her own panto experience to the production. "My first glimpse of theatre was attending panto at a little church group," Syal recalled. "I'll never forget the feeling of the lights going down, the music starting, the actors coming on."
Epic Fight Scenes and Behind-the-Scenes Fun
One of the film's standout moments features Sutherland in a comedic scrap with Danny Dyer, who plays Wilson's troubled hard-man ex. "Danny, I absolutely adore him," Sutherland said of his co-star. "It was just like, look, the way this is going to be funny is that these two guys really can't fight very well at all. They're the worst fighters on the planet but it ended up being one of my favourite fight sequences ever in my career."
Director Foggin praised the immediate chemistry between the two actors: "Everyone has to work with Danny Dyer: the love and enthusiasm he brings is just brilliant. Them two got on straight away."
British cast members appreciated the Hollywood stars' down-to-earth approach during the Yorkshire shoot. Ray Fearon, who plays the baron, revealed Sutherland shared tips about local pie shops, while Lucien Laviscount recounted hilarious moments involving co-star Mawaan Rizwan struggling with manual transmission while Sutherland offered "more gas!" advice from the passenger seat.
Despite his British connections - born in London with Scottish grandparents - Sutherland confessed he has never actually seen a pantomime, having missed his chance when production began just after the festive season ended. "I was so bummed," he admitted, though he hopes to finally experience the tradition this year.
Tinsel Town arrives on Sky Cinema from December 5th, offering British audiences a heartwarming Christmas comedy that celebrates the unique tradition of pantomime while showcasing Hollywood stars embracing Yorkshire life.
