Top 10 24 Episodes, Ranked

24 revolutionized television with its real-time storytelling, relentless tension and complex characters. Debuting in 2001, the show followed the exploits of Counter Terrorist Unit (CTU) agent Jack Bauer, masterfully played by Kiefer Sutherland. Each of 24's nine seasons chronicled 24 hours of Jack's life, filled with nail-biting suspense, political intrigue and moral dilemmas that pushed the boundaries of conventional TV storytelling. Over its long term, 24 became a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with its unpredictable twists and high-stakes drama.

24The never-before-seen format is a testament to the skill of its writers and cast. From shocking betrayals to heart-stopping action sequences, 24 delivered moments that left viewers breathless. Whether it was an intense standoff, a surprising revelation, or an emotional farewell, the show excelled at creating unforgettable episodes this kept fans on the edge of their seats.

10

Season 8, Episode 16

Day 8: 7:00 am - 8:00 am

The hours from 7:00 to 8:00 in the morning 24 exemplifies masterful storytelling with expertly crafted tension and payoff. Dana Walsh's web of deception collapses when heightened CTU surveillance exposes her, leading to a desperate escape attempt. Ortiz's capture of Dana provides long-awaited justice for his betrayal. About that, President Taylor struggles to defend a fragile peace treatyTheir efforts have been complicated by Russian Foreign Minister Novakovich, whose veiled threats suggest larger conflicts. These threads create an atmosphere of suspense, mixing personal retribution and geopolitical intrigue in an hour packed with twists and emotional weight.

Hassan's kidnapping is the center of attention, culminating in one of the 24the most harrowing twists. Despite Jack Bauer's calculated efforts during the rescue mission, he fails and Hassan's execution is revealed through a frighteningly delayed video transmission. The hour ends with 24The silent and symbolic clock that signifies heroic sacrifice. While some plotlines have been resolved, uncertainty remains surrounding the Russians, the treaty, and Jack's next steps, ensuring that the tension lingers long after the credits roll.

9

Season 2, Episode 21

Day 2: 4:00 - 5:00

Season 2, Episode 21 of 24 offers a masterclass in rising tension, interweaving high-stakes political drama with intense personal confrontations. As Jack fights mercenaries, 24's President David Palmer faces his own trial as his cabinet debates invoking the 25th Amendment to remove him from office. Dennis Haysbert's commanding performance as Palmer conveys strength and vulnerability, particularly in his interactions with Mike Novick and Jim Prescott. The moral and political dilemmas resonate deeply, adding a layer of realism to the series' narrative.

The final moments of the episode are particularly striking, with Palmer losing vote of confidence and being escorted out of the room. Jack's search for more clues leads him to hacker Alex Hewitt, only to encounter the enigmatic Sherry Palmer, leaving viewers on a tantalizing cliffhanger. With its expert pacing, compelling character arcs, and high emotional stakes, this episode exemplifies why 24 remains the pinnacle of serialized drama.

8

Season 1, Episode 24

Day 1: 23:00 - 12:00

The end of season 1 of 24 masterfully combines breathtaking suspense with devastating emotional stakes, delivering a landmark conclusion to Jack Bauer's harrowing first day. The episode deftly balances its narrative threads, from Jack's desperate mission to rescue Kim to David Palmer's fierce confrontation with Sherry. The moral dilemmas faced by the characters add layers of complexity, highlighting the series' signature tension between duty and personal sacrifice.

Jack's confrontation with the Drazens is thrilling, with their raw fury driving an intense and visceral action sequence. However, the episode's scariest moment comes after the dust settles. Jack's reunion with Kim is destroyed when he finds Teri, brutally killed by the treacherous Nina Myers. Using the silent clock to mark Teri's death is a chilling and unforgettable choiceamplifying the weight of the tragedy. It's a moment that solidifies 24 as a show that isn't afraid to take bold narrative risks.

7

Season 8, Episode 17

Day 1: 8:00 am - 9:00 am

The 17th episode of 24The penultimate season of is a masterclass in escalating stakes, combining character-driven drama with the series' signature intensity. The narrative effectively balances political intrigue, personal heartbreak, and dark conspiracies as the show approaches its conclusion. Jack Bauer and Renee Walker share a rare moment of intimacyallowing a vulnerable side of Jack to shine. However, this brief reprieve is interrupted by a devastating murder that echoes the series' most tragic losses. Renee's death in 24 is as shocking as it is moving, marked by the iconic silent clock that highlights the emotional weight of the moment.

Kiefer Sutherland's raw performance as Jack cradles Renee's body is a highlightsolidifying their relationship as one of the most exciting on the show. Meanwhile, political machinations unfold as President Taylor deals with the aftermath of President Hassan's assassination. His reluctant enlistment of disgraced President Logan adds an air of moral ambiguity, while Chloe O'Brian's unexpected promotion as leader of the CTU provides a refreshing twist. This episode exemplifies 24the ability to seamlessly blend personal tragedy with global stakes, ensuring each plotline feels important.

6

Season 5, Episode 12

Day 5: 6pm-7pm

This episode of 24 delivers a powerful mix of emotional devastation, intense confrontations and shocking twists. The Sentox nerve gas attack on CTU serves as a chilling centerpiece, highlighting the vulnerability of even the most secure institutions. The tragic death of Edgar Stiles, marked by the Silent Clock, is a poignant moment that underscores the show's high stakes. His loss adds a deep emotional weight, leaving characters and viewers deeply shaken. About that, Jack Bauer's reunion with his estranged daughter Kim adds emotional complexitywith the return of Elisha Cuthbert showing the pain of their fractured relationship.

On the political front, President Logan faces the moral dilemma of implementing martial law. The tense interactions between Logan, Vice President Gardner, and Martha Logan emphasize the political stakes, with Jean Smart delivering a standout performance as Martha balances personal anguish with her role as First Lady. Simultaneously, the suspense builds as Ostroff infiltrates CTU and methodically prepares the nerve gas attack. Jack's tactical skill in tracking and stopping Ostroff exemplifies the show's mastery of action and strategy.

5

Season 8, Episode 24

Day 8: 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm

This climactic episode 24 serves as a fitting conclusion to the show's eighth seasondelivering emotional resonance, high-stakes drama and a bittersweet farewell to its iconic protagonist. President Allison Taylor's decision to cancel the peace treaty and confess her complicity in the cover-up is a profound moral reckoning, showcasing Cherry Jones's powerful performance as Taylor struggles with the devastating consequences of her actions. His tearful apology to Jack Bauer and his firing underscore the episode's themes of responsibility and redemption.

Jack Bauer's final moments on the run exemplify your resilience and moral complexity. His tense confrontation with Chloe O'Brian, where she is forced to shoot him to save his life, highlights their deep bond and provides heartfelt closure to their relationship. Mary Lynn Rajskub shines in this scene, as Jack's acknowledgment of her unwavering support reinforces the emotional core of the series. Meanwhile, Charles Logan's descent into madness and attempted suicide serve as a fitting end to one of the series' most dubious villains, with Gregory Itzin delivering a chilling performance that captures Logan's desperation and unraveling schemes.

4

Season 9, Episode 8

Day 9: 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm

This exciting episode of 24: Live Another Day features the show's signature mix of intense action, emotional stakes and unexpected twists, providing a standout episode in the limited series. President Heller's decision to sacrifice himself for the greater good takes center stage, culminating in a powerful and dramatic sequence at Wembley Stadium. His calm determination to face a drone attack to ensure the destruction of the remaining weapons constitutes one of the most heroic acts of a fictional US president, underscored by his moving farewell to Audrey and his pardon of Jack Bauer.

Jack's relentless determination shines through as he orchestrates Heller's escape, with surgical precision and ingenious tactics. From getting Heller through security to piloting a helicopter, Jack proves once again that no obstacle is insurmountable for him. The episode balances action with humor, as Jack's brusque but effective methods clash with those of the more hesitant Boudreau, forming an unlikely but compelling alliance.

3

Season 2, Episode 15

Day 2: 10pm - 11pm

This episode of 24 delivers one of the most memorable and emotional hours in the series, combining high-stakes action with deeply personal moments. Jack Bauer's decision to fly the plane carrying the nuclear bomb to the Mojave Desert underscores his unwavering commitment to duty, even at the potential cost of his life. His emotional farewell to Kim, where they reconcile their strained relationship, is a touching highlight that adds a human touch to the intense narrative.

The episode also provides a fitting conclusion for George Mason, who redeems himself by taking Jack's place on the plane in a selfless act of courage. Xander Berkeley's portrayal of Mason's journey from morally gray character to hero is both compelling and bittersweet. The final moments of this episode, when the nuclear bomb detonates in the distance and a mushroom cloud appears, are visually and emotionally striking, cementing this episode as a highlight in 24history.

2

Season 9, Episode 12

Day 9: 10pm - 11pm

24Jack Bauer's final episode delivers a potent mix of high-stakes action, emotional resonance, and thematic closure, solidifying Jack Bauer's legacy as a complex, sacrificial hero. Jack's tireless quest for justice against Cheng Zhi, driven by both personal loss and professional duty, culminates in an explosive and cathartic confrontation. Tzi Ma's portrayal of Cheng Zhi adds depth to this arc, with her desperate, cornered behavior contrasting with Jack's determination.

Audrey's tragic death adds a poignant layer to the endingemphasizing the recurring theme of sacrifice in Jack's world. The emotional consequences, particularly President Heller's painful recognition that his Alzheimer's disease will soon erase his memory of that day, underscore the devastating personal costs of duty. William Devane's performance in this moment is haunting, offering a fitting farewell to his character. The episode's final moments sum up Jack's defining traits: his altruism and his moral ambiguity. Trading his life for Chloe's freedom highlights his enduring loyalty.

1

Season 5, Episode 24

Day 5: 6:00 am - 7:00 am

The end of season 5 of 24"6:00-7:00" masterfully delivers a suspenseful, emotional conclusion that captures the series' signature blend of political intrigue, personal sacrifice and high-stakes drama. Jack Bauer's relentless pursuit of justice leads him to confront President Logan in a tense standoff, showing his determination to expose Logan's corruption. The interrogation scene brims with tension, as Jack's unwavering moral code conflicts with Logan's arroganceresulting in a nerve-wracking sequence that highlights the moral complexities of Bauer's character.

The episode's emotional core shines through Martha Logan's heartfelt breakdown at David Palmer's funeral and her subsequent confrontation with her husband. Jean Smart gives a remarkable performance, portraying Martha's courage and desperation in exposing Logan's crimes. About that, Gregory Itzin's portrayal of Logan remains incrediblecapturing the character's desperation as his world falls apart. With stellar performances, gripping storytelling and a chilling conclusion, the ending solidifies season 5 as the best in 24history.