24 no more?

Is the end in sight for Jack Bauer?

With the eighth series of 24 finally starting to burst into life, rumours about the future of the show have been circulating. It’s long been known that Kiefer Sutherland’s multi-million dollar contract is up at the end of the season, and also that he’s keen to move the adventures of Jack Bauer to the big screen.

However, in spite of hints to the contrary earlier in the year, it seems that Fox in the US isn’t keen to extend 24 into a ninth season. It’s understandable why: ratings have been falling, it’s an expensive show to make, and the narrative has seemingly long run out of steam. And yet it still gets enough numbers through the door to keep people interested in more.

As such, the current word is that Fox is going to pass on making a ninth season, but it’s currently shopping the show around to other networks in the States, with NBC being mentioned, who might stump up for another run.

If that doesn’t happen, then expect the long-mooted plans for a Jack Bauer feature film to gather steam.

Either way, given that planning for season nine would need to start shortly, expect a decision very soon. For time may yet be up for Mr Bauer….