Kiefer Sutherland discusses the possibility of returning to his 24 character Jack Bauer in the future. The groundbreaking action-thriller first aired on Fox back in November 2001, to widespread critical acclaim. Each season of the show followed a day in the life of counter-terrorism agent Jack Bauer, as he battles against the clock to prevent terrorist attacks and uncover government conspiracies. Considered a seminal show, 24 has enjoyed enduring popularity years after it ended. After eight seasons and a total of 192 episodes, as well as TV film 24: Redemption, the original run of the show came to an end in May 2010.
Sutherland, who played Bauer in every episode of the original show, received praise for his performance, winning an Emmy and a Golden Globe for the role. Four years after season 8 finished, 24 returned with a 12-episode season 9, entitled 24: Live Another Day, which sought to wrap up some of the plot threads from the end of the original run. Following Live Another Day’s conclusion, Sutherland returned to TV with a starring role in the political thriller Designated Survivor. In 2017, Fox sought to resurrect the 24 franchise with spin-off series 24: Legacy, which was canceled after just one season.
Speaking in an interview with British newspaper The Guardian, in which he answers readers’ questions, Sutherland speaks fondly of his experience with 24, and expresses an interest in possibly returning to the role in the future. The 55-year-old actor seems enthusiastic, but also addresses the need for something to happen sooner rather than later. Read Sutherland's full comments on a return to 24 below:
I’ve learned to say: never say never. But if the writers are going come up with a good idea, they better do it quick, because I’m slowing down. Time is catching up and the bones are getting brittle. Maybe they should reboot it with new characters and Jack Bauer somehow gets out of China and that storyline’s resolved. I’m open to all of it. 24 was one of my great experiences in life and if there’s a smart, intelligent way to finish it – or at least finish my involvement – I’m open to that.
Classic shows tend to retain popularity years after they have finished, and iconic characters will always have a place in popular culture. With the recent revival of older, popular characters in shows like Cobra Kai, there is clearly a strong element of nostalgia in a lot of TV right now. Platforms like Netflix have also certainly made it easier to produce content in a faster, more affordable way, and Sutherland already has a working relationship with the company.
24 is one of the most successful and acclaimed television shows of all time, and there is little doubt an appetite would still be there for seeing Sutherland return to the role. There has already been one attempt to revive the franchise, with 24: Legacy, but this was not considered to be a success. Nevertheless, it is believed Fox seems keen to reboot the franchise again, and this could open the door for Sutherland to return in some capacity. However, due to his age and growing career as a musician, any 24 reboot featuring Sutherland will need to happen soon.
Source: The Guardian