French broadcaster TF1 and Netflix have partnered on "Jackdaws," a six-part World War II drama adapted from Ken Follett's 1989 espionage novel. The series stars French actress Laëtitia Casta in a premium production that marks a significant transatlantic collaboration in prestige television.
Camille Treiner, creator of the French military drama "Women at War," developed and co-wrote the adaptation. Production companies Empreinte Digitale and Stéphanie Germain Productions handle the project, with Thomas Saignes and Raphaël Rocher directing from Paris.
Follett's source material follows a British intelligence operation during Nazi-occupied France, centering on a network of resistance fighters tasked with a critical mission. The novel, set against the backdrop of the D-Day invasion preparations, represents one of Follett's most celebrated works outside his "Pillars of the Earth" and "World Without End" series.
The partnership reflects Netflix's ongoing strategy of tapping European talent and production infrastructure to develop original drama content for international audiences. TF1's involvement signals the French network's commitment to competing in the prestige television space alongside streaming platforms.
Casta brings significant weight to the project. The Corsican-born actress has built a distinguished career across French and international productions, establishing credibility within both European and global markets. Her casting positions "Jackdaws" as a prestige event rather than a conventional prestige drama.
The WWII setting remains reliable territory for European streamers and broadcasters. Recent years have seen sustained interest in the period, from "The Ministry for the Future" adaptations to various spy thrillers. Follett's intricate plotting and character-driven narrative provide rich material for serialization.
WHY IT MATTERS: This partnership demonstrates how streaming giants now anchor European public broadcasters in premium drama production, reshaping the competitive landscape of continental television while bringing A-list literary adaptations to global audiences.