KIEFER SUTHERLAND - 'JACK BAUER' BEGINS JAIL TERM

'JACK BAUER' BEGINS JAIL TERM

24 star Kiefer Sutherland has begun serving time in a Los Angeles jail over a drink driving offence.

The 40-year-old actor was sentenced to 48 days behind bars over driving under the influence while he was on probation over a similar offence.

Glendale Jail spokesman John Balian told People magazine that Sutherland was cooperating with authorities and that he would be treated as a long-term inmate – requiring him to wear an orange jumpsuit and to be in his own cell.

During his term he will be required to work at the kitchen and laundry and will have to live on his own in a room measuring 8 feet by 10 feet.

The LA city attorney's office said the star would serve his full-term and was unlikely to be released early. The prosecutors added that the court had order Sutherland to enrol himself onto a 15-month alcohol recovery programme and to attend regular counselling sessions.

Previously, Sutherland, whose imprisonment affects the popular drama's shooting, has apologised to those affected by his actions.

"I'm very disappointed in myself for the poor judgment I exhibited recently, and I'm deeply sorry for the disappointment and distress this has caused my family, friends and co-workers on 24 and at 20th Century Fox. I appreciate the support and concern that has been extended to me these last weeks both personally and professionally."