24 film still in pipeline, says Kiefer Sutherland

The actor said the film was 'ongoing', but the new 12-part series took priority

Actor Kiefer Sutherland talks about the new series of '24' at the Television Critics Association (Getty Images)

Actor Kiefer Sutherland has confirmed a film based on the hit series 24 is still in the pipeline.

Speaking about the new series of 24, which will return in May, Sutherland told reporters on Monday: “The script for the film was very, very different. The film’s an ongoing situation. There’s always an opportunity to do that.”

He said the idea for a new 12-part series was presented to the cast first, which was prioritised over the making of the film.

“[Showrunner Howard Gordon] came up with an idea of a 12-episode run of this and this opportunity presented to us first. It’s a fantastic idea. If this ends up rebooting the show or causing a film to be made, so be it,” he said.

More details for the new series of 24: Live Another Day were revealed at a press conference earlier this week.

The new series, which will be broadcast on Sky 1 in May, is to be set in London and will follow Bauer as he attempts to stop a terrorist attack.

Original cast members Mary Lynn Rajskub, Kim Raver and William Devane will also appear in the new season.

Hit series '24' is to return to Sky 1 in May (FOX)

The new series will start in the US on 5 May with a two-hour special. It will then take up its usual one-hour format a week later.

Speaking about his return to the series, Sutherland said: “The response to 24 is unlike anything I have ever experienced as an actor before. There’s a great impetus for all of us to create something new with the show.

”To have the chance to reunite with the character Jack Bauer is like finding a lost friend.“

A transmission date for Sky1 has yet to be announced, but it has been confirmed the new series will return to the UK in May.