To be honest when I first heard about the show I wasn't watching it. I just thought it was another one of those one hit wonder shows. I started watching the show when the second season came out. Then I picked up the first season, already knowing what happens mostly. So the ending wasn't a real shock to me (not telling the people who haven't seen it). If you haven't watched 24 at all and are about to, don't watch it on t.v. right now (on season 5 presently). Start at the beginning. It's like a movie. If you miss one hour of the show, its pointless to go on. GET IT...THE BEST SHOW ON TELEVISION...YOU WON'T STOP WATCHING IT!!!