The classic thriller movie will be the inspiration for a new globe-trotting drama. 

Drawn from Frederick Forsyth’s seminal thriller, 1973’s The Day of the Jackal drew acclaim on its release. Now the story is getting a “bold, contemporary reimagining” for Sky and Peacock.

While remaining true to the spirit of the original, the series promises a deeper dive into the anti-hero at the heart of the story. The makers promise “…high-octane, cinematic, globetrotting ‘cat and mouse’ thriller, set amidst the turbulent geo-political landscape of our time.”

First published in 1971, The Day of the Jackal tells the story of a professional assassin, known only as the “Jackal,” who is hired to kill then-President of France Charles de Gaulle. The story promptly became a movie starring Edward Fox and Michael Lonsdale.

We can only wonder at who the target for assassination might be in the new version? Just don’t mention the remake from 1997 which starred Bruce Willis and Richard Gere; while The Jackal was a commercial success, Frederick Forsyth refused to have his name on it.

This take on the story comes from Carnival Films, with Ronan Bennett (Top Boy) set to write and showrun. Brian Kirk (Game of Thrones, Luther) is also onboard as lead director.

Filming starts in the summer – we’ll keep you posted.