The eagerly awaited The Day of the Jackal TV series premiered on November 7, 2024. It is a reimagining of the 1971 novel by Frederick Forsyth, originally adapted into a film in 1973. This series, however, brings a fresh perspective and modern setting while staying true to the core plot.

The story centers around an English hitman known as The Jackal, hired by a French dissident group to assassinate French President Charles de Gaulle. What makes this character so intriguing is his ability to blend into any environment by assuming a variety of disguises. The plot follows both the assassin as he prepares for the mission and Claude Lebel, the determined French police officer tasked with stopping him.

This new adaptation stars Eddie Redmayne as The Jackal. Redmayne, known for his roles in The Theory of Everything and Fantastic Beasts, brings a calm, calculated nature to the assassin's character. He delves into the psyche of The Jackal, a man who is both meticulous in his planning and vulnerable due to his complex personal life. Redmayne worked extensively with movement and voice coaches to perfect the character's many disguises, including playing a 65-year-old German cleaner in one of the assassin's guises. Filming took place in several European countries, adding a dynamic backdrop to the cat-and-mouse chase between The Jackal and the authorities.

Lashana Lynch, known for her roles in No Time to Die and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, plays Bianca, a tenacious law enforcement agent who is equally skilled at navigating the world of deception. Bianca’s personal life and relentless pursuit of The Jackal add layers to the story, as she tries to balance her career and her complicated relationships.

The series takes full advantage of its global setting, with stunning locations in Hungary, Croatia, Austria, and the UK standing in for the many places The Jackal travels to. These settings enhance the international thriller feel that made the original novel a classic.

The Day of the Jackal series is not just a straightforward adaptation. It has been described as a modern, reinterpreted version of Forsyth’s work, with updated stakes and a new target. The pacing, suspense, and Redmayne's portrayal of The Jackal make this a standout thriller.

The series is already receiving positive reviews, with many praising the intricate plot and strong performances, especially from Redmayne and Lynch. The ten-episode season is being released weekly, with new episodes airing every Thursday. For viewers who love thrilling, high-stakes dramas, this series promises to keep them on the edge of their seats.

The Day of the Jackal will be available to stream on Peacock in the U.S. and Sky Atlantic in the UK, with distribution in several countries worldwide