'24' shuts down production to allow Kiefer Sutherland to have surgery
20th Century Fox Television has temporarily shut down production of "24" so that star and executive producer Kiefer Sutherland can undergo a surgical procedure related to a ruptured cyst near his kidney.
Although the cyst ruptured while he was working earlier in the week, production continued until Friday without him. His publicist, Evelyn Karamanos, issued the following statement on Sunday to the Times:
"While Kiefer Sutherland is frustrated to miss even one day of work, he and Fox decided together that it would be best to complete this minor elective procedure now as a precaution as opposed to six weeks from now when production wraps. He looks forward to returning to work next week."Production will probably resume in one week. 20th Century Fox Television also issued a statement on Sunday:
"We are temporarily suspending production of '24' while our friend and colleague Kiefer Sutherland undergoes a medical procedure. We hope to resume production shortly and do not anticipate any disruption in the broadcast of this season's episodes."
-- Maria Elena Fernandez (follow me on Twitter @writerchica)
Photo: Kiefer Sutherland at last month's Golden Globes. Credit: EPA
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"to allow" surgery? What kind of employers are these?
Posted by: cybele | February 14, 2010 at 12:44 PM
Kiefer, get well soon! Your are such a great person. I will be praying for your speedy recovery. I will never forget what you did for me and my family.
Hugs,
Gigi
Posted by: gigi | February 14, 2010 at 01:24 PM
Right, a cyst... we all know that's just a cover for Renee stabbing you.
Posted by: Jeremy | February 14, 2010 at 02:04 PM
I just hope this isn't a cover for an eventual cancellation. Heard 24 is on the bubble this year and may not be renewed for next season, or worse.
Let's hope Surnow can get his act together and finish up with this Russian mafia story-line and come up with something more engaging than what we've seen thus far. When do the drones kick in? I was hoping for a hell-fire missile streaking down Broadway or something.
Posted by: MK | February 14, 2010 at 03:20 PM
I wouldn't have minded if you mentioned which season of production this was for. It's always news to hear 24 is shooting a new season.
Posted by: ZachP | February 14, 2010 at 03:47 PM
Get well soon, Kiefer. Do exactly as the doctor says and don't push it, tough guy.
Warm regards,
Dani~
Posted by: Danielle | February 14, 2010 at 03:52 PM
Why doesn't he just find a bullet to bite, grab his knife, and cut that sucker out himself? Jack Bauer would....
Posted by: Tom | February 14, 2010 at 04:22 PM
All surgery is major . . . NOT minor!
Get well Keifer!!!
Posted by: Apres Ski | February 14, 2010 at 04:31 PM
We never thought we would say this about "24" but all this darkness and Russian radio active rods is boring! How about a change of scenery. Too much grey and darkness on show. T
Think about doing a show with beautiful oceans, sunlight, bright colors in clothing..change the topic and scenery, please.
Posted by: Mr and Mrs USA | February 14, 2010 at 04:54 PM
The very best to you Kiefer in your recovery. I know you are not the type to be latent in your work habits; but do what is required to get well. Big fan and especially like good people that come from Canada, and that you are.
Posted by: JR Jake | February 14, 2010 at 05:47 PM
We'll say a prayer! Thank you for entertaining us!
Posted by: Kathartinc | February 14, 2010 at 08:49 PM
I love you, Kiefer! Get well soon!
P.S. FOX is *crazy* if they EVER CANCEL 24...this show can go on for years. Each day is a new day!! I love this show! I never buy box sets of anything, but I've purchased everything ever taped of this show!! It's so beautifully written.
I want more, more, more -- but Kiefer's health is more important. Heal soon, sweetie. :-)
Posted by: Nicole | February 14, 2010 at 11:23 PM
WTF is a ruptured kidney cyst? is that normal? dangerous?
Posted by: simpsonsmovieblew | February 15, 2010 at 07:14 AM
Had the same thing happen to me. Hurts like hell. Hope you feel better soon and don't push getting back to work. We will wait. Your a true gentleman.
Posted by: Shelby | February 15, 2010 at 10:42 AM
Poor Kiefer! He's had some bad moments - first he lost $900K and now he's injured. Hope he gets well soon. He seems like a good guy. I really enjoyed reading his biography "Kiefer Sutherland: Living Dangerously" by Christopher Heard. It's a good book. Check it out on amazon.com.
Posted by: Shar | February 15, 2010 at 01:07 PM
Come on Jack!!!! Last week you were stabbed in the stomach and were fighting the bad guys five minutes later, whats a little ruptured cyst???
Posted by: maris | February 15, 2010 at 03:38 PM
I'm sorry I stabbed you! Get well soon.
I'm off to the Psych ward.. BaBYe
Posted by: Renee | February 15, 2010 at 11:11 PM
Get well Kiefer!
Posted by: DD | February 17, 2010 at 11:50 AM
get well soon,, you are doing a good job with the show !!
Posted by: ken lowry | February 17, 2010 at 05:56 PM