Every major streaming service now boasts its own signature action series, but Peacock has quietly built one of the most compelling alternatives with The Day of the Jackal. The spy thriller, starring Eddie Redmayne and Lashana Lynch, has been climbing the platform's most-watched charts in June 2026, even though its second season isn't expected until 2027. For fans hungry for a smart, tense espionage fix, this is the perfect weekend binge.
Based on Frederick Forsyth's classic 1971 novel, The Day of the Jackal follows a legendary, highly paid assassin whose latest mission puts him on a collision course with a relentless intelligence officer. The cat-and-mouse chase unfolds across Europe, with deception, espionage, and shifting loyalties blurring the line between hunter and hunted. The first season holds an 85% critics' score and 77% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes, signaling strong word-of-mouth.
The show's connection to Prime Video's Reacher runs deeper than genre. Lee Child, author of the Jack Reacher novels, has openly credited The Day of the Jackal as a key inspiration for his own writing. That lineage gives Peacock's series a unique pedigree—it's not just another spy thriller, but a foundational text for one of the most popular action franchises on television. For those who've already devoured Reacher and are looking for something similarly lean and efficient, this is a natural next step. Check out our list of lean, mean action movies under 100 minutes for more quick-hit thrills.
Created for TV by Ronan Bennett—who also wrote the Tom Hardy-led MobLand on Paramount+—The Day of the Jackal premiered on Peacock in late 2024. The show was quickly renewed for a second season, though production delays have pushed its return to 2027. In the meantime, fans have been revisiting Season 1, driving it into Peacock's top 10 and onto VOD charts. The momentum is a testament to the show's gripping storytelling and Redmayne's chilling performance as the titular assassin.
For Season 2, David Harrower steps in as lead writer, while Bennett transitions to an executive producer role. The shift suggests the series may evolve its tone or focus, but the core premise—a high-stakes international thriller with moral ambiguity—remains intact. If you're looking for more underrated spy stories, our roundup of forgotten thriller shows that came close to perfection includes several hidden gems worth your time.
As streaming competition heats up, The Day of the Jackal stands out as a sophisticated alternative to the bombastic action of Reacher. It's a show that rewards patience and attention, with layered characters and a plot that twists without losing coherence. For those who prefer their espionage with a side of psychological depth, this is a must-watch.
All episodes of Season 1 are now streaming on Peacock. Stay tuned for more updates on Season 2's release date and casting news. And if you're planning a full weekend of streaming, don't miss our weekend binge picks for Prime Video to round out your watchlist.
