Kiefer Sutherland: 40million dollar man

Actor Kiefer Sutherland has signed a new multifaceted deal with the Fox network to appear in the hit series "24."' for three more years.

According to E!Online, the deal was reportedly worth $40 million for the acting contract alone, making Sutherland the highest paid actor in a dramatic television series.

"The extraordinary support we have received...has made a difficult show like '24' succeed on all levels, and for that I'm truly grateful," Sutherland says in a statement.

"I am thrilled to extend my commitment to all my friends and colleagues at '24,' and I'm looking forward to this expanded relationship with 20th Century Fox."

Sutherland will also become an executive producer on the Fox show and he will be able to develop new TV and internet projects through his own production company.

The 39-year-old described his past five years on the show as "one of the most creative and rewarding experiences in my career."

In its fifth season, "24" has become a DVD best-seller and has spawned a mobile phone series.

Sutherland's performance as Jack Bauer has earned him a Golden Globe award and four Emmy nominations.