Sky renew smash-hit thriller with star-studded cast despite costing a whopping £100million
SKY has announced that it is renewing one of its biggest hits to date.
Day of the Jackal has been a runaway success story for Sky with a record-breaking 3million viewers tuning in across the first week of broadcasts.
This makes it the biggest ever Sky Original title to date.
The hit’s success has come at a price though, with the show reportedly costing an enormous £100 million to produce.
In the battle of the big dramas, studios are having to splash the cash to keep up with the competition.
Bagging megastar lead actor, Eddie Redmayne, it is thought to have cost a gobsmacking £1million for each of the 10 episodes made.
The must watch series is a reimagining of the iconic 1973 novel by Frederick Forsyth.
He drew from his own experiences as an RAF pilot and investigative journalist to bring a world of secrecy and assassins to life.
Viewers can’t seem to get enough of the re-telling with actor Lashana Lynch playing the part of British intelligence officer Bianca, as she tracks down a mysterious assassin, the Jackal, played by Eddie Redmayne.
The spy series hasn’t just been a hit in the UK, with Peacock Original bagging the rights to screen the show in the US, where it’s reached a top 10 spot in the TV ratings.
Despite the massive outlay, the risk seems to have paid off, with the series being sold to almost 200 territories worldwide.
Eddie Redmayne has really dived into the story and is credited as one of the show’s Executive Producers.
Meghan Lyvers, Executive Director of Original Scripted, Sky UK and Ireland, said: “We are thrilled by the phenomenal global reception of The Day of the Jackal.
“This series has captivated audiences with its propulsive storytelling, epic scope, and unforgettable performances from Eddie Redmayne, Lashana Lynch, and Úrsula Corberó.
“Becoming Sky’s biggest Original to date is a true reflection of the passion, dedication, and masterful artistry poured into every scene.”
Carnival Films produced the series, and their Executive Producers Gareth Neame and Nigel Marchant said: ”The overwhelming response to The Day of the Jackal has exceeded all expectations.
“Our goal was to bring a fresh perspective to this iconic story, and we’re thrilled to see how well it has been received by audiences in the UK but also around the world.
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“We couldn’t have done it without the exceptional Eddie Redmayne, Lashana Lynch and the entire cast and crew; this record-breaking success is a testament to their incredible talent.”
Episodes 1-6 of The Day of the Jackal are available now on Sky and streaming service NOW, with new episodes launching weekly each Thursday.