Peacock and Sky have unveiled the first look at their highly anticipated series, The Day of the Jackal, featuring a stellar cast led by Eddie Redmayne, Lashana Lynch, and Úrsula Corberó. The teaser for the show premiered during NBC and Peacock’s coverage of the 2024 Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony, generating excitement among fans.
Set to premiere on November 7, the series is based on Frederick Forsyth’s iconic novel and the 1973 film adaptation. The story revolves around a highly skilled and elusive assassin known as the Jackal, portrayed by Redmayne. This character is notorious for taking on high-stakes contracts, but after his latest job, he finds himself pursued by a determined British intelligence officer, played by Lynch. This cat-and-mouse chase unfolds across Europe, leaving chaos in its wake.
The new adaptation promises to be a contemporary reimagining of the original tale, set against the backdrop of today’s complex geopolitical landscape. It aims to explore the multifaceted nature of the anti-hero, delving deeper into the psyche of the Jackal.
Ronan Bennett, known for creating the acclaimed series Top Boy, serves as the writer and showrunner for The Day of the Jackal. Brian Kirk, who has directed episodes of popular series like Game of Thrones and Luther, will take the helm as director. The production is being handled by Universal International Studios’ Carnival Films, renowned for its work on Downton Abbey.
Executive producers for the series include Gareth Neame and Nigel Marchant from Carnival Films, with Redmayne also taking on an executive producer role alongside Lynch, who serves as a co-executive producer. Other key figures in the production team include Sam Hoyle from Sky Studios, Sue Naegle, and Marianne Buckland.
In addition to Redmayne and Lynch, the cast features a diverse lineup of talent. Corberó, known for her role in Netflix’s Money Heist, will portray Nuria, a character intertwined with the Jackal’s personal life, unaware of his true identity. Charles Dance and Richard Dormer, both recognized for their work in Game of Thrones, will also join the cast in significant roles.
The Day of the Jackal is being described as a bold and modern take on the beloved story, maintaining the essence of the original while infusing it with contemporary themes. The series promises to be a high-octane thriller, filled with intrigue and suspense, as it navigates the complexities of the modern world.
As anticipation builds for the series, fans can look forward to a gripping narrative that stays true to the original while offering a fresh perspective. The combination of a talented cast, experienced production team, and a compelling storyline sets the stage for what could be one of the standout series of the year.
With production set to begin soon, viewers are eager to see how this adaptation unfolds. The Day of the Jackal will be available for streaming on Peacock in the United States and on Sky in the UK, Ireland, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, and Austria.
Mark your calendars for November 7, as The Day of the Jackal promises to deliver a thrilling experience that fans of the original story and newcomers alike will not want to miss.
Source: NBC, Peacock, Sky, Variety, Deadline
