The series and Kiefer's 20th Century Fox TV deal will both run through 2009

FOX has renewed its Emmy-winning Monday anchor "24" for at least two more days.

With its sixth season finale approaching next Monday (May 21), "24" now has a seemingly secure spot on FOX's schedule through the 2008-09 season. Not-so-coincidentally, the renewal carries the show through the duration of star Kiefer Sutherland's contract with the show's production company, 20th Century Fox TV.

Last year was a good year for "24." The drama averaged 13.6 million viewers per week and won its first Emmy for outstanding drama series and for lead actor Sutherland. Although the ratings have been down only slightly, the sixth season has faced increased criticisms from fans over the ongoing plotlines. Producers have made repeated promises that there will be sweeping changes before next year.

Sutherland signed a reported eight-figure, three-year deal with 20th Century Fox TV last spring, a pack running through May 2009.

FOX also ordered a 13th season of the Saturday night sketch comedy series "MADtv," though that's probably a bit less exciting than the "24" renewal.