Oscar winner Eddie Redmayne boards the series in the lead role.

Back in November, we reported on a series adaptation of the classic thriller The Day of the Jackal. Based on Fredrick Forsyth’s novel, the story famously first came to the big screen in 1973 courtesy of Universal Pictures.

Now, Sky and Peacock’s television adaptation of the story has announced its lead – Eddie Redmayne has joined the project as an executive producer, as well in the role of the Jackal himself. Best known for his film work, the series marks Redmayne’s first return to television in 11 years, since his role in Birdsong.

For this contemporary take on the story, The Day of the Jackal has been reimagined amidst the current turbulent geo-political landscape. It’s described as “a high octane, cinematic, globetrotting ‘cat and mouse’ thriller.” This version of the take also promises to delve deeper into the chameleon like ‘anti-hero’ of the Jackal himself.

The series comes from Carnival Films. Ronan Bennett (Top Boy) writes and serves as showrunner, with Brian Kirk (Game of Thrones) directing.

Gareth Neame, CEO & Executive Producer at Carnival Films said:

“We are excited to bring to life Ronan Bennett’s re-imagining of Forsyth’s revered thriller in the complex world in which we live today and are incredibly fortunate to have an actor of Eddie’s calibre as our Jackal. Paired with Ronan’s screenplay and Brian Kirk’s direction, this is a first-class creative team.” 

Gareth Neame and Nigel Marchant are Executive Producers for Carnival Films. Author Frederick Forsyth will serve as Consulting Producer and Christopher Hall is the Producer. Sam Hoyle is Executive Producer for Sky Studios.

Production begins on The Day of the Jackal later in 2023. We’ll keep you posted.