Will Smith shares touching tribute to Donald Sutherland in heartfelt post

Will Smith honoured his late friend and co-star Donald Sutherland on social media in a heartfelt post after the announcement of his death on June 20 at the age of 88.

Two nostalgic images from the set of their 1993 movie Six Degrees of Separation were posted on Instagram by Smith along with a meaningful message.

The actor wrote, "Rest in Peace, Donald," in memory of their time spent together both on and off the screen.

Along with Will Smith and Donald Sutherland, the 1993 movie Six Degrees of Separation featured an impressive ensemble cast that included Stockard Channing, Ian McKellen, Mary Beth Hurt, and Bruce Davidson.

Smith was cast as Paul, a crafty con man who tricked Channing and Sutherland, a rich Upper East Side couple, by pretending to be a friend of their Ivy League-educated kids.

The true story of David Hampton, a con man who fooled wealthy families into believing he was the son of renowned actor Sidney Poitier, served as the inspiration for the Broadway play that was turned into a film.

Throughout his decades-long cinematic career, Sutherland played several memorable roles. Among his noteworthy roles are Mr Bennet, costarring with Keira Knightley in the 2005 Pride and Prejudice adaption, and Hawkeye Pierce, the renowned character from the 1970 classic M_A_S*H. 

In addition, he gave excellent performances in the 1978 film Invasion of the Body Snatchers and the 1980 film Ordinary People.

He co-starred with Jennifer Lawrence in the popular Hunger Games franchise as the menacing President Snow in recent years. His wide range of roles demonstrates his extraordinary talent and adaptability.