Top Jacks: Jack Bauer
Jack Bauer is a fictional character and the main protagonist in the Fox Network’s television series 24, portrayed by Kiefer Sutherland. Jack Bauer is known to be ruthlessly efficient at doing his job, in his various capacities during the six seasons of the series, so far—from being an agent at the Counter-Terrorist Unit in LA, to being director of field operations of CTU LA, to being special assistant to the Secretary of Defense, or just a free agent seeking retribution for personal damages.
Jack Bauer’s character is described as being a “flawed hero” in that the same “tragic flaw” that dictates his rise to power also causes his tragic downfall. In the series, Jack Bauer’s involvement in the counter-terrorist unit has given him adequate training to survive many of the disasters he has faced, and even save the world in the process. But this has also caused much misfortune, especially in the tragic deaths of family members and friends, which can be directly attributed to his being involved in CTU.
Jack Bauer is also characterized by considering the ends more important than the means. Therefore, he will accomplish his mission no matter what the cost. He is known to have killed or caused the deaths of individuals if these meant protecting the lives of the many. Indeed, people closest to him have died as a consequence of Jack’s actions, including his wife (in season 1).
As a running joke, Jack Bauer has usually been put head-to-head with Chuck Norris, as the two are seen as unstoppable forces, and will probably result to the world ending in a violent way if they fought each other.
“Rules don’t apply to Jack Bauer. He does what he wants, when he wants, and he doesn’t care whose life it affects.”
I’ve decided to continue our “Top Jacks” feature. If you have ideas for other Jacks to write about, do email us through the contact page.
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