24

24 went on production hiatus at the beginning of September for a few weeks.  24 can afford to do this – they are nearing the end of production on season 7, despite not premiering until January.  They have time.  The reason for the halt in production was purely creative – the writers wanted to improve the scripts for the end of the season.  Characters are being added, which we'll discuss below.  Some have speculated that the hiatus was, in part, orchestrated in order to figure how to best integrate Kim Bauer into the final third of the season (Elisha Cuthbert recently signed on to return to the series as Jack's daughter).  EW's Michael Ausiello denies this claim, but does report that a couple new characters will be added to the end of the season, though those roles have yet to be cast (as far as we know, that is). 

New characters: 

Clea Bowden – Attorney for Jonas (Jon Voight), season 7's main bad guy.  Clea is in her thirties, attractive and cold-hearted.  Realistic casting suggestion: Portia de Rossi.

Alan Wilson – An extremely wealthy, Donald Trump-like figure.  He's as powerful and influential as Jonas.  Middle-aged.  Realistic casting suggestion: Chris Cooper.


The sins of season 6 are all but forgotten among the 24 faithful, it appears.  Everyone I've talked to who used to love 24 is incredibly excited about the new season, including myself. It would definitely help if 24: Exile, the prequel film that arrives on FOX November 23, turns out to be good.  If it disappoints, the anticipation for season 7 will be significantly dampened.  But, even if 24: Exile isn't the epitome of Jack Bauer badassery we all expect, season 7 still looks solid.  The change of locations to Washington, D.C., the return of Tony Almeida and the addition of Jon Voight to the cast are more than enough to get 24 fans excited. 


-Oscar Dahl, BuddyTV Senior Writer
(Image Courtesy of FOX)