TV Guide 18-24 October 2003

by Shawna Malcom

Think Jack's impulsive? Meet his new CTU sidekick

Six months ago, James Badge Dale was punching the clock as a construction worker in New York City, just trying to pay the bills between acting gigs. These days, the 25-year-old is saving the heavy lifting for his role as Jack's impetuous partner, Chase. "He's not afraid to do what he wants," Dale says of his character, who takes a swing at more than one foe in early episodes. But "he idolizes Jack and [is] trying to prove himself. He has a fear of not being good enough."

Producers thought Dale, who appeared in the 1990 film adaptation of "Lord of the Flies," was perfect for the pivotal role. "We saw a tape of him, and in like 30 seconds, we all went, 'That guy's interesting,'" 24 cocreator Joel Sumow says. "He has what Kiefer has, a sort of rawness."

Look for a certain choice Chase makes in his personal life to make for a rough 24 hours with Jack. Off camera, how would Dale spend an ideal day? Enjoying the LA. weather, probably on his own. "Groups of people tend to bother me," he says with a crooked smile. "I can be moody."