Surnow Exits 24

LOS ANGELES, February 13: Joel Surnow, the executive producer and co-creator of FOX’s 24, is leaving the Emmy Award-winning drama ahead of
his contract expiring in April.

According to published
reports, Surnow is taking advantage of the series’ postponement—a result
of the writers’ strike—to pursue other opportunities. The series was due
to head into its seventh season last month, but was indefinitely postponed
because of the strike. Only eight hours had been shot before the network ran
out of scripts. In order for the series to run interrupted, without repeats, it
is not expected to return to the schedule till 2009.

A FOX statement noted:
"Joel created one of the landmark series of this decade in 24 and his contribution to its creative excellence
over the years has been immeasurable. While he leaves the show in the
incredibly capable hands of the talented Howard Gordon, his input will always
be welcome."

—By Mansha Daswani