24: Legacy: Does Tony Deserve Redemption?

The returning 24 star on what we learned about Tony in his return.

By James Pugh

Carlos Bernard reinvigorated 24: Legacy with his return as Tony Almeida in last week’s episode, with the longtime fan-favorite character finding himself once again tasked with thwarting an attack on America.

As we learned, Tony is now the leader of a mercenary unit that operates outside the law and handles the jobs the government can’t have on the books. Bernard finds this an interesting way for the character to be portrayed, telling IGN, “He’s been a leader for the good guys and the bad. Now he kind of skirts that line. He’s definitely not a bad guy - it’s a shade of grey.”

Tony mentioned in his return that he and Rebecca had a relationship not long after Michelle died, only further complicated by her involvement in his escape. “[Rebecca] was the one that broke him out of prison,” Bernard noted. “She needed his skills off the grid; she broke him out because of Bin Khalid.” This relationship can only get more complex, with Bernard saying, “I think he fantasizes about the regular life they might have been able to have.”

Longtime fans will debate Tony’s redemption in the series. Does he deserve it, considering the terrible things he's done? Asked about this, Bernard replied, “I think he does. I think everyone does. As long as they are willing to put in the work. It should be hard, but that’s what makes it worthwhile.”

Tony Almeida represents a viable through line back to the original series and Jack Bauer. When asked what Tony might think about 24: Legacy's new lead, Eric Carter, Bernard wouldn't confirm if the two share screen time, but did say, “[Tony] would dig him. He would love his resolve and his heart. He would remind him of someone he knew very well.”

Regardless of what the future holds for Tony Almeida, it’s evident Carlos Bernard loves playing the character. “He’s a character I am proud of playing. [He] allows for a conversation about what’s right and wrong. He explores the grey area and shows that people survive and make decisions in the moment. The character means a lot to me.”

24: Legacy airs Monday nights at 9:00 PM ET/PT on FOX.

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