Acting great Donald Sutherland has died at the age of 88 following what has been described as a "long illness".

In a career stretching back to the early 1960s, the star appeared in a host of acclaimed movies and TV shows, including The Dirty Dozen, The Hunger Games films, M*A*S*H and Citizen X.

News of his death was broken on X by his actor son Kiefer Sutherland, who wrote: "With a heavy heart, I tell you that my father, Donald Sutherland, has passed away.

"I personally think one of the most important actors in the history of film. Never daunted by a role, good, bad or ugly. He loved what he did and did what he loved, and one can never ask for more than that. A life well lived."

Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau wrote in tribute: "We've lost one of the greats. Donald Sutherland brought a level of brilliance to his craft few could match. A remarkable, legendary actor — and a great Canadian. My thoughts are with his loved ones. Rest in peace, Donald."

Sutherland is survived by wife of more than 50 years Francine Racette, his five children and four grandchildren.