Fox cancels 24 after eight seasons

THR reports that after eight seasons, Fox’s groundbreaking 24 is coming to an end in May, after the New York City season wraps up in May. According to the report, a ballooning budget, declining ratings and creative fatigue, all collided to cause the show’s demise.

But Jack Bauer fans may have something to hold out for, as reports indicate the developing theatrical film may take Kiefer Sutherland’s iconic character to Europe, and executive producer Howard Gordon says other possibilities are being explored as well.

The constant rise of cast and creative team salaries cause any television drama to carry serious financial weight after its fifth year, and Fox apparently paid a hefty $5 million per episode license fee to 20th TV to air this season.

Meanwhile, the show’s ratings dropped 16% this season.