In the crowded world of streaming spy thrillers, one show is quietly proving that the original inspiration can be just as addictive as the blockbuster it inspired. The Day of the Jackal, the Peacock series that directly influenced Alan Ritchson's Reacher, has become a global streaming sensation—and its second season is set to drop in June 2026.
Based on Frederick Forsyth's classic 1971 espionage novel, The Day of the Jackal first hit screens as a 1973 film. But it's the 2024 TV adaptation, starring Eddie Redmayne and Lashana Lynch, that has captured the modern streaming audience. The show's first season has been a quiet powerhouse on Peacock, drawing in viewers who crave the same taut, intelligent action that made Reacher a Prime Video phenomenon.
Lee Child, author of the Jack Reacher novels, has openly cited The Day of the Jackal as a key inspiration for his iconic character. Now, fans of both franchises are flocking to Peacock to see the source material. The series follows a ruthless assassin (Redmayne) and the British intelligence officer (Lynch) hunting him across Europe—a cat-and-mouse thriller that critics have praised for its tension and style.
Peacock confirmed that Season 2 will premiere in June 2026, with production already well underway. The long gap between seasons is partly due to a behind-the-scenes change: showrunner Ronan Bennett, who wrote and ran the first season, has stepped back due to scheduling conflicts. He's been replaced by David Harrower, who recently wrote episodes of the Colin Firth-led spy thriller Lockerbie: A Search for the Truth. Bennett remains an executive producer, ensuring continuity.
This creative shift hasn't dampened enthusiasm. The show's first season is still drawing new viewers, and its success mirrors the broader trend of spy thrillers dominating streaming. For context, Peacock has had mixed results in the genre—Why Peacock's Spy Thriller 'Ponies' Got Cancelled Despite 94% RT Score—but The Day of the Jackal has proven resilient.
If you're looking for a binge-worthy thriller that grabs you from the first scene, this is it. The series is a masterclass in pacing, with each episode tightening the screws. For more recommendations, check out 10 Intense Thrillers That Grab You From the First Scene and Never Let Go.
With Season 2 on the horizon, now is the perfect time to catch up on Peacock. And for fans of the genre, the wait until June 2026 promises to be worth it—especially as other streamers scramble to replicate the magic. The Day of the Jackal isn't just a show; it's the blueprint for modern spy thrillers.
