EntertainmentNew series adaptation of 'The Day of the Jackal' unveiled

New series adaptation of 'The Day of the Jackal' unveiled

The novel by Frederick Forsyth has once again inspired creators to bring it to the screen. Who will take on the role once played by Bruce Willis?

Bruce Willis in "The Jackal" (1997)
Bruce Willis in "The Jackal" (1997)
Images source: © everett collection
Basia Żelazko

Frederick Forsyth's novel The Day of the Jackal has had two major film adaptations. The first, from 1973, was praised by critics and considered a cult classic by viewers. It was directed by Fred Zinnemann and starred Edward Fox. The second adaptation, from 1997, deviated further from the literary original and was titled "The Jackal." The then immensely popular Bruce Willis played the titular role in the movie. Unfortunately, the film received terrible reviews.

New "The Day of the Jackal"

Now, SkyShowtime has announced a ten-episode series based on the novel and the first film adaptation.

The script and adaptation for the series were written by Ronan Bennett, creator and writer of the critically acclaimed series "Top Boy". The production was directed by the internationally recognized Brian Kirk ("Game of Thrones", "Luther", "Boardwalk Empire").

About the series: The main character, the Jackal, played by Eddie Redmayne, is an exceptionally efficient and elusive assassin who only takes on assignments for the highest pay. He works alone, without any assistance. However, his world changes when he encounters a new adversary. A British intelligence agent, portrayed by Lashana Lynch, begins tracking his movements across Europe. A brutal rivalry ensues, where both sides are willing to make any sacrifice and will not hesitate to take any step.

Eddie Redmayne received an Oscar for "The Theory of Everything"
Eddie Redmayne received an Oscar for "The Theory of Everything"© Licensor
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 5: (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE) Eddie Redmayne poses during a ceremony unveiling Eddie Redmayne & Gayle Rankin Sardi's caricatures honoring their performances on Broadway in "Cabaret at The Kit Kat Club" at Sardi's on September 5, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Bruce Glikas/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 5: (EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE) Eddie Redmayne poses during a ceremony unveiling Eddie Redmayne & Gayle Rankin Sardi's caricatures honoring their performances on Broadway in "Cabaret at The Kit Kat Club" at Sardi's on September 5, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Bruce Glikas/Getty Images)© GETTY | Bruce Glikas
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 16: Eddie Redmayne arrives to the 77th Annual Tony Awards at the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center on June 16, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by James Devaney/GC Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 16: Eddie Redmayne arrives to the 77th Annual Tony Awards at the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center on June 16, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by James Devaney/GC Images)© GETTY | James Devaney
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 17: Eddie Redmayne is seen on May 17, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Raymond Hall/GC Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 17: Eddie Redmayne is seen on May 17, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Raymond Hall/GC Images)© GETTY | Raymond Hall
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 06: Eddie Redmayne attends The 2024 Met Gala Celebrating "Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion" at The Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 06, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Aliah Anderson/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 06: Eddie Redmayne attends The 2024 Met Gala Celebrating "Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion" at The Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 06, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Aliah Anderson/Getty Images)© GETTY | Aliah Anderson

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