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24

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 15, age appropriate for kids over 18; suggested age 15.

  • Is it any good?

    4.0
  • Common Sense says

    A tense thriller for adults and mature teens.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 15–18

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    Jack may be the hero, but he's no role model. Murder, drugs, etc. -- he's done it all. However, most of his actions are geared toward helping keep the country safe.
  • Violence:

    Intense violence -- gunplay, stabbing, poisoning, explosions -- but little blood.
  • Sex:

    Minor sexual activity and sexual discussions.
  • Language:

    Minor adult language.
  • Consumerism:

    FOX News plays a major role in the show. The Sprint logo is visible on cell phones.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Jack used to use heroin but talks about it with regret. Minor characters drink and smoke.

What Parents Need to Know

This review of 24 was written by Sierra Filucci

Parents need to know that this very addictive series is all about terrorism. The violence is relentless, albeit mostly bloodless, and the lead character is rarely remorseful. Villains are sometimes portrayed stereotypically, although, in general, the show depicts women and minorities without bias. Discussion of sex is common, but not a major plot element. Because 24 is expressly designed to be addictive, parents not wanting their teens to watch all 24 episodes, should probably not let them watch even one.

Families Can Talk About

Talk to your kids about the media in their life. We have more tools and tips that can help
  • Families can talk about world politics as it relates to terrorism, as well as concepts of good and evil. The series' frequent moral quandaries can provide good jumping-off points for talking to teens about right and wrong. Does the end justify the means? What would they do in Jack's position? How does the show make them feel about the way government and politics operate?
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More on 24

What’s the Story?

In an age of both real and imagined terrorist threats, 24 brings us Jack Bauer (Kiefer Sutherland), a rugged hero who works with the U.S. Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU) to fight those who threaten the country. His methods of fighting terrorism are often repugnant, but his quest is always noble. What's makes this series unique and compelling is its structure. Each season follows just a single day -- each episode accounting for one hour (i.e., playing out in real time). The CTU is thrown into action by a major threat, such as nuclear bombs, viruses, and plots against the president. But even as Jack fights the bad guys (who have included Arabs, Russians, and Americans), he finds the time to make intimate connections with others, so viewers can find empathy for him despite his outrageous circumstances.

Is It Any Good?

With its breathless pace, moral dilemmas galore, and an innovative format, 24 is one of the most exciting shows for adults on television today. With frequent gunplay, hand-to-hand combat, explosions, high-speed chases, double-crosses, deception, and some sexual content, 24 is definitely not for kids; some teens may be able to handle the violence.

While Jack is the heroic good guy, his aggressive tactics diminish his character as a role model. Sometimes the series' formula wears thin, with certain scenarios playing out over and over again, but well-developed characters, especially CTU agent Chloe O'Brian (Mary Lynn Rajskub), keep it interesting.

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Our Members Say

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Most Recent Reviews

  1. I rate this title on for age 10 and give it 5.0
    • My concerns are:
    • Excessive violence
    • My highlights are:
    • Positive messages
    • Good role models

    i think under 10 it would get scary also (not to be sexist but girls dont like violence as much so maybe 13 for girls"

    I love this show ive been watching it since its come on tv which was like 7 years ago ( im now 17 its an amazing show and jack teaches a lesson to kids "dont be a terrorist...or you will die "

  2. Teen Reviewer Age 15
    Lives in Arizona
    I rate this title on for age 13 and give it 5.0
    • My concerns are:
    • Excessive violence
    • Inappropriate sexual content
    • Inappropriate language
    • Drinking, smoking, or drug use

    Best show ever

    Awesome show

  3. Kid Reviewer Age 12
    I rate this title on for age 15 and give it 5.0
    • My concerns are:
    • Excessive violence
    • Inappropriate sexual content
    • Inappropriate language
    • Negative role models

    perfect for tweens and up

    THE BEST SHOW EVER!!! The drinking, drugs, and smocking isn't that bad exept for seson 3.also there isn't a lot sexual behavior or language. All though there is a lot of violence and not many role modles exspishily jake.

  4. Kid Reviewer Age 12
    I rate this title on for age 11 and give it 5.0
    • My concerns are:
    • Excessive violence

    Good for tweens and up

    This is the favorite show of all time for me, my father,and my grandfather. Their is alot of violence. Not much sex. Mild language. Minimal use of drugs.Except Season 3.

  5. I rate this title on for age 13 and give it 5.0
    • My concerns are:
    • Excessive violence
    • Inappropriate language
    • Drinking, smoking, or drug use
    • My highlights are:
    • Positive messages
    • Good role models

    not for young the ones

    The best show ever though. Love it

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