JACK Bauer returns to television screens in the United States on Tuesday after a four-year absence.

The fearless counter-terrorism agent and star of the ground-breaking series 24 is back for a limited-run series of 12 episodes that kicks off on Monday night US time.

The 24: Live Another Day event series will air on Network Ten in Australia, starting on May 12.

Set in London, the series again centres on Bauer and retains the real-time, pulse-pounding, fast-paced format with split screens and interweaving storylines made famous by its predecessor.

Four years ago, Jack was a fugitive from justice. Now an exile, he is still willing to risk his life and freedom to stop a global disaster.

Kiefer Sutherland returns as Jack, with co-stars Kim Raver, William Devane, Mary Lynn Rajskub, Benjamin Bratt, Tate Donovan and Stephen Fry in a recurring role as the British Prime Minister.

The series also stars Australian Yvonne Strahovski (Chuck, Dexter).

Launched in 2001, 24 was nominated for 73 Emmy Awards.

Over eight seasons, Sutherland garnered seven Emmy Award nominations and one win for Outstanding Lead Actor - Drama Series.

The 12-episode series is half the length of previous seasons and has been designed to suit today's viewing audience.