How to Rule a TV Show? Narration in 24
How to Rule a TV Show? Narration in 24

Summary/Abstract: In my paper I examine 24 (2001–2010, Fox), a contemporary TV show, which gained high critical and public attention thanks to its narration technique. In my view, this technique has its roots in classical television narration, so the discussion starts with an introduction, in which the rules of traditional television narratives are summarised. After discussing the most important terms, such as series/serials, narration, schedule, flow, etc. the concept of the host is introduced. It is the narrator of documentaries and news, but some TV shows have hosts as well. Traditionally, the presence of such an on screen and/or voice-over narrator leads to disbelief, because it points out the fictional character of the story. Each episode of 24 can be divided into two parts: the recap with its homodiegetic voice-over host/narrator (the protagonist, Jack Bauer), who updates the viewer; and the show itself which is transmitted from another, invisible narration level. Why does this discrepancy not affect our trust in the presented possible word? How can the show unite former distinct categories? What could have been the secret of 24’s rise and failure? What is the role of Jack? These questions will be examined in my essay.

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