Sutherland Thankful He Kept His Job

24 star KIEFER SUTHERLAND is thankful he kept his job after spending Christmas in jail for drink driving.

The actor was sentenced to 48 days in jail after he was caught driving under the influence in Los Angeles last September (07).

He subsequently spent his 41st birthday, Christmas and New Year's Eve behind bars.

Now free and back on the set of hit show 24, Sutherland is counting his blessings - because his stupidity could have cost him his job.

He says, "I made a really dumb mistake, and to be able to get back to work, which is something I feel comfortable doing and is a safe place for me, I was grateful to have that opportunity.

"I have friends who have made similar mistakes who have not been that lucky."