YES, that is Jack Bauer – and it looks like our intrepid CTU agent is in a heap of trouble.

As usual.

This first-look image of Jack (Kiefer Sutherland) from next season’s “24” picks up where last season ended – when Jack was kidnapped by the Chinese in retaliation for his accidental killing of a Chinese embassy official during a kidnapping.

Last season’s “24” finale ended with Jack suffering a savage beating on a freighter headed for China.

By all accounts, Jack has been through a world of hurt, as evidenced by his bedraggled beard and reed-thin appearance.

But, as “24” fans know, if anyone can pull himself together – quickly – it’s Jack.

“24” kicks off its season with a special four-hour, two-night premiere in mid January.