TV chiefs have halted production of the thriller 24 so its star Kiefer Sutherland can undergo surgery.
Shooting is expected to resume next week with Sutherland's return.
Twentieth Century Fox Television would not comment on the nature of Sutherland's ailment, referring to it only as "a medical procedure".
The Los Angeles Times first reported the production halt and said Sutherland, who is also 24's executive producer, was suffering from a ruptured cyst.
Sutherland plays counter-terrorist hero Jack Bauer on the series. The show is now in its eighth season.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies