Rick Moran is on the job, posting his response and plot summaries for the season debut of 24. I have yet to run into anyone who was disappointed, and many of us think that the season is off to a smashing start. Lori Byrd's reactions are equally enthusiastic.

My two cents: I think the Derek character, the initially sullen teenager who is the son of Jack's slightly matronly new girlfriend Diane, offers some fascinating possibilities. Derek seemed to me to be a proxy for viewers, especially new viewers attracted by the buzz. His suspicions of Jack were well—justified (sharp kid!), and his horror at Jack's brutality completely understandable. But we saw him quickly wise up to the evil ways of the world, as Jack clued him in with his shorthand explanation for the amazing events unfolding before his eyes.

Will Derek meet the ditzy but beautiful Kim, Jack's daughter? Father and daughter dating mother and son could get very complicated. Even if Kim stays out of the picture, will Derek explain to Mom all that he has learned about Jack? How will Mom deal with her lover being a deceptive thug? A noble, patriotic, righteous thug, but face it, a brute on stilts.

The trademark combination of soap opera with extreme action is one of the keys to 24's success. There is something for everyone.

Like everybody else, I was shocked and saddened at the death of President Palmer, played by Allstate Insurance spokesman Dennis Haysbert. Dennis has been a real favorite of mine ever since his role in Mr. Baseball, which he played with brilliance. President Palmer was another great role for him, and although I am sure Allstate more than pays his bills, I hope he will find more great roles where I can appreciate his considerable talents.

I will be watching tonight. I just wish they could show 2 hours a night for the next eleven days. I am addicted, and do not look forward to 6 days a week of withdrawal over the next three months.

Thomas Lifson   1 16 05