Encounters can be deceiving, as Kiefer Sutherland discovered when he crossed paths with the late Shane MacGowan in a bar during the ‘90s.
The lesson he learned was simple: never judge a book by its cover and seldom trust initial impressions.
In a tale recounted by the “24” actor in 2019, resurfacing now with the news of the passing of the Pogues frontman at 65, Sutherland recalled a night at a Dublin club where he found himself amidst a star-studded group including Sinead O'Connor, Van Morrison, Ronnie Wood, and MacGowan.
Amidst the unique gathering, Sutherland noticed O'Connor sipping on milk while everyone else indulged in different beverages.
A casual introduction led to a discussion on politics between Sutherland and MacGowan, which quickly escalated into a physical altercation, much to the amusement of Van Morrison.
Reflecting on the incident, Sutherland shared that despite the scuffle, he apologized and walked away, noting MacGowan's physical state at the time with a cast on his arm and missing teeth, making the fight seem unjust.
However, hours later, a surprising turn of events occurred when MacGowan approached Sutherland at the bar seeking a place to stay, showcasing a directness that impressed the actor.
Despite their earlier clash, Sutherland was taken aback by MacGowan's request and eventually accommodated him for the night at his hotel.
The morning after, Sutherland woke to find MacGowan gone but left behind meticulously folded blankets and a heartfelt note expressing gratitude for the hospitality shown.
The letter, described as poetic and generous, left a lasting impact on Sutherland, altering his perception on judging individuals based on initial encounters.
MacGowan's recent passing at the age of 65 was announced by the Pogues, though details regarding the cause of death were not disclosed.
The profound encounter between Sutherland and MacGowan serves as a reminder that true character often transcends first impressions, leaving room for unexpected connections and meaningful exchanges.
