Jack Bauer’s 24 Comeback Just Got a Game-Changing Update

Jack Bauer might actually be clocking back in. For the first time in ages, the folks who can push the button on 24 are saying, out loud, that things are moving.

Why this suddenly feels real

Imagine Entertainment president Justin Wilkes says talks about a new 24 have picked up. He told Variety the timing makes sense given, well, the state of the world right now, and he did not exactly tiptoe around it:

"It's a little bit informal at this point, but if you look at Russia, Ukraine, and just the theater of Europe right now, the world needs Jack Bauer."

Wilkes didn't share story or casting details. Translation: they're figuring out what the next version of this thing actually is before they lock anything in.

Will Kiefer suit up again?

Not confirmed. But Kiefer Sutherland has said he'd like to come back and close the book on Bauer. If they find the right angle, he sounds game. No promises yet.

Behind the curtain: who's driving this

Showrunner Howard Gordon told Deadline there is an actual project in development and it's not just wishful thinking.

"It is absolutely in process, there is something we are developing."

One catch: it still needs Disney's approval. That tracks, since the franchise sits under Disney now via 20th Television. Gordon also stressed they're not doing a half-baked revival; if it isn't good, he's not interested. His bar is basically: only make it if you truly believe in it, even knowing that belief doesn't guarantee the outcome.

Quick refresher

24 premiered in 2001 and ran nine seasons, wrapping in 2014. If you're feeling the itch for ticking clocks and split screens, that's the stretch we're talking about continuing.

What we know right now

• Talks for a new 24 have gained traction, the most promising movement in years.
• Justin Wilkes says the current geopolitical climate makes a Bauer comeback feel timely.
• No plot or casting details yet. Kiefer Sutherland has publicly said he'd like to return to finish Bauer's story.
• Howard Gordon confirms active development but says Disney still has to sign off.
• The team is prioritizing quality over speed; they won't move forward unless the idea feels genuinely strong.

Bottom line: wheels are turning, big players are engaged, and the door is open for Kiefer. Now it's on Disney and the script gods.