24 Star Says Sorry For DUI

Kiefer Sutherland’s apologised for drink driving and entered a guilty plea.

In a statement, the 24 star – who didn’t turn up in person for his court appearance in Los Angeles – regretted his "poor judgment" and the "distress this has caused by family, friends and co-workers."

The DUI guilty plea is part of a deal with prosecutors that would see him do 48 days in jail BUT they would organised so it wouldn’t disrupt filming of the seventh season of the action-drama TV show that has resurrected his career.

Kiefer, who plays secret agent Jack Bauer, has been hailed by TV network bosses and producers of his show for working out a plea bargain that put the good of the series above concerns for his own liberty.

In a statement, FOX – the TV network that airs 24 in the US – said: "He told us that even if he had to sacrifice more time in custody in order to protect the show and the jobs of those who work with him, he would do so. From what occurred today, it is evident he is a man of his word."

40-year-old Kiefer was arrested last month. He was over the limit and still on probation for a 2004 drunken driving offence.