The Day of the Jackal wrapped up its dramatic first season with an intense chase between an international assassin and a determined MI6 agent, culminating in a deadly conclusion. Naturally, attention has already shifted to the possibility of a second season.
Fortunately for fans, there’s good news: the hit assassination thriller has officially been renewed for season 2.
This modern reimagining of the 1973 film starring Edward Fox, itself based on Frederick Forsyth’s novel The Day of the Jackal, features Eddie Redmayne as a contract killer targeting high-profile figures across Europe. However, when he becomes the target of MI6 agent Bianca Pullman (Lashana Lynch), the result is a gripping pursuit spanning the continent.
Since its debut on 14th November, the series has been a massive success on Peacock and Sky, earning the title of the biggest Sky Original in the UK. According to Sky, the show drew a record-breaking three million viewers in its first week alone. With such popularity, a second season was almost inevitable.
What do we know about season 2?
While an official release date has yet to be announced, we can speculate based on season 1’s timeline. Production for the first season lasted approximately seven months, followed by a 12-month gap before its release. If season 2 begins filming in early 2025, a 2026 release seems likely—but this remains speculation for now.
Peacock confirmed the renewal in November 2024, and the events of season 1’s finale set the stage for intriguing developments. In a surprising twist that diverged from both Forsyth’s novel and the 1973 film, the Jackal survived, while Bianca met a brutal end. This likely rules out Lashana Lynch’s return for season 2.
Eddie Redmayne is expected to reprise his role, though this has not been officially confirmed. Other cast members who may return include Úrsula Corberó, Charles Dance, Richard Dormer, Chukwudi Iwuji, Lia Williams, Khalid Abdalla, Eleanor Matsuura, Jonjo O’Neill, Sule Rimi, and Florisa Kamara.
One character who won’t return is Vincent Pyn (Nick Blood), who was killed alongside Bianca in the finale.
What could season 2 explore?
While the official plot for season 2 hasn’t been revealed, the dramatic ending of season 1 provides potential storylines. The Jackal remains active and determined to find his wife, Nuria, who tried to escape her deadly husband.
Meanwhile, businesswoman Zina Jansone (Eleanor Matsuura) arranged a meeting with the Jackal, referencing an unsettled debt and suggesting financier Timothy Winthrop (Charles Dance) as a potential target.
Season 2 could delve into the Jackal’s pursuit of his family and his continued work as a hitman, promising more action and intrigue to come.
