Sutherland Headbutt Downgraded to Intoxicated Love Tap

In the wake of his potentially career-wrecking designer headbutt, we were surprised that Kiefer Sutherland decided to follow Brooke Shields's lead by addressing the matter with light jokes. Turns out, they probably knew something we didn't: Sutherland has come to an agreement with his victim, Proenza Schouler designer Jack McCullough, that should exonerate the 24 star.

The NYDN has their joint statement:

"I am sorry about what happened that night and sincerely regret that Mr. McCollough was injured," the action star stated contritely. The designer responded, "I appreciate Mr. Sutherland's statement and wish him well."

The two have negotiated an agreement that will surely result in Sutherland's third-degree assault charges to be dropped when both gents appear in court June 22.

An insider confides that Sutherland is relieved to have kept his gig -- and wants to stay out of trouble. "Kiefer is very glad to have settled this so quickly and relatively quietly. He knows the ramifications his actions in New York would have had on his L.A. court troubles [his DUIs]. It could have meant additional penalties or even more jail time.

"He's looking forward to just staying out of harm's way and is content to focus on his work for now. But he hasn't stopped drinking."

And why would he, when a little bit of lawyerly backchannelling (and a mandatory five-episode arc that will see Mary Lynn Rajskub outfitted in a draped teal georgette dress with asymmetric seams) can repair all wounds?

· Kiefer Sutherland's apology keeps '24' star in '12' job [NYDN]