Is "24" the Best TV Show Ever?

If you ask any regular viewer, you'd find out quickly that 24 is a must see television hit. Millions of viewers cling to the edge of their seats each week and the show dominates the ratings on a regular basis during its primetime slot on the television network FOX. But with the great hype surrounding the show, deserved or not, can we say that 24 is the best television show of all time?

The hit television show features 24 episodes in a season, each of which chronicles an hour in a day of a counter terrorist agent (CTU) named Jack Bauer. Bauer, played by Kiefer Sutherland, is an American hero who appeals to the patriot attitude instilled in the common man following the terrorist attacks of September 11^th, 2001. The show is currently in its sixth season on air and hasn't lost any steam in its domination of ratings. Popularity with 24 remains steady and doesn't appear to be taking a downturn anytime soon with the shows newest season being as shocking as ever.

If 24 is the best television show of all time, it would be in great company. Many would contend that other shows such as M.A.S.H., Seinfeld, or Friends are the best shows ever. But what grounds would these shows have to make such a claim? Each boasts a long tenure that was backed-up by their intense following and fan support. Also, each appealed to the every man in many ways. So how does 24 stack up against that? It exceeds those attributes. While those shows are great shows and undoubtedly have all those qualities, 24 can lay claim to much stronger support as well as an intense following. Moreover, 24 is on pace to have an extended tenure just like many of the other great shows because its star Kiefer Sutherland is signed on through season 8.