“24” (2001) is a groundbreaking action-drama television series that aired on Fox, created by Joel Surnow and Robert Cochran. The show is famous for its real-time format, where each 24-episode season covers 24 hours in the life of its main character, Jack Bauer (played by Kiefer Sutherland). The series is known for its intense pacing, intricate plots, and the constant tension of watching events unfold in real-time.

The story centers around Jack Bauer, a federal agent working for the Counter Terrorist Unit (CTU) in Los Angeles. Bauer is a highly skilled and resourceful agent, often forced to go to extreme lengths to stop terrorist attacks and protect the nation. Each season of “24” typically revolves around a major terrorist threat, such as assassination attempts, nuclear attacks, biological warfare, and cyberterrorism.

The show’s unique format means that each episode represents one hour of real-time events, creating a sense of urgency and immediacy as Bauer and his team race against the clock to thwart the terrorists’ plans. The series is known for its complex storylines, with multiple intersecting plotlines, surprise twists, and moral dilemmas that Bauer faces throughout his missions.

One of the key elements of “24” is its exploration of the ethical and moral challenges faced by those who work in national security. Jack Bauer, in particular, is often put in situations where he must choose between the lesser of two evils, making the character both a hero and an anti-hero. His personal life is also deeply affected by his work, with the series delving into the impact of his job on his relationships and mental state.

The supporting cast includes various characters who work with or against Bauer, including CTU colleagues, government officials, and family members. Throughout the series, Bauer encounters numerous adversaries, including terrorists, corrupt politicians, and traitors within his own organization.