Kiefer Sutherland Returning To A Dark, Fan-Favorite Role?
Could it happen?
Dark City, the late nineties Science Fiction Noir has long been reported to be getting a television series to expand on its narrative lore. Now Alex Proyas, the writer and director of the original Dark City and the man behind the new television series has hinted at a possible cast member returning for the new project. As reported by ScreenRant, Proyas has eyes on Kiefer Sutherland to reprise his role as Dr Daniel Schreber.
Dark City was released in 1998 and was widely considered a flop at the box office, but has since gone on to become considered a cult classic. For many, the film flew under the radar, hence its poor box office return, but the film itself was received well by critics. The film has drawn comparisons with 1999’s The Matrix and follows Rufus Sewell’s John Murdoch as a man trying to recover his memory in the midst of a sinister underworld being manipulated by a foreboding extraterrestrial threat known as the Strangers. Kiefer Sutherland’s character Dr Daniel Schreber is a minion working for the Strangers, his line of work revolving around experimenting on humans. The story of Sutherland returning for a television sequel to Dark City comes from Alex Proyas commenting on Facebook in response to another ScreenRant article citing Sutherland’s love for the role of Schreber. Proyas’ comment was simply; “Kiefer might be back in those shoes again… I hope!”
ScreenRant’s report on Kiefer Sutherland’s love for his Dark City role came courtesy of the Designated Survivor star’s sit down with GQ, where he broke down a number of his iconic roles in film and television. In the video below, Sutherland recalls how a meeting with Proyas in a bar had the actor determined not to leave until he secured the role of Dr Daniel Schreber. As a result, it wouldn’t be difficult to imagine Sutherland being open to a role reprisal. The fact that Dark City creator Alex Proyas has hinted he hopes for the 24 actor to be on board for the reboot looks as if the reunion could be all but set.
Kiefer Sutherland would represent a major development for the Dark City television reboot for a number of reasons. First of all, it would offer a connection to the original movie, ensuring that invested fans will be drawn to the new project. Not to mention that Kiefer Sutherland is a bonafide star. Not only is Sutherland the world-famous Jack Bauer of 24, but he is also ABC’s POTUS in Designated Survivor. Put short, Sutherland is used to being the kingpin for big television shows and would help revive Dark City for a mainstream audience, something the original failed to cater to.
There is no word yet as to whether Kiefer Sutherland is confirmed for a Dark City return, nor is there much more information regarding where the project is headed. When Alex Proyas broke the news he was working on the new project, and it was mentioned he was in the early stages of development. However, just like Proyas, fans will be hoping Sutherland gets on board soon.
