Oscar-winning British actor Eddie Redmayne was spotted on the streets of Budapest on Thursday, April 17, 2026, filming scenes for the second season of The Day of the Jackal. The 44-year-old star, best known for his roles in The Theory of Everything and the Fantastic Beasts film series, was seen near St. Stephen’s Basilica, where production crews were shooting exterior sequences.
Redmayne’s presence in Budapest drew attention from locals and tourists alike, with several bystanders capturing video and photos of the actor on set. One such clip, shared on TikTok by performer Laura Cserpes, showed Redmayne and the film crew working on a scene in front of the basilica. The video quickly gained traction online, highlighting the actor’s continued connection to the city.
This is not Redmayne’s first visit to Hungary’s capital. According to reports, he previously filmed in Budapest during earlier seasons of The Day of the Jackal, and has made informal appearances in the city over the past few years. In 2023, he was seen at an event supporting the Adom Student Movement, and in 2024, he was photographed at a café and posed with staff from the Gundel restaurant.
The actor has spoken warmly about his experiences in Budapest. In a 2024 encounter, journalist Tünde Polgár described having a “long, deep conversation” with Redmayne about the arts during a chance meeting. Such interactions have contributed to his reputation among locals as approachable and engaged with the community.
The Day of the Jackal, a television adaptation of Frederick Forsyth’s novel, follows the story of a professional assassin hired to kill French President Charles de Gaulle in the early 1960s. The series, which premiered on Sky Atlantic and Peacock, cast Redmayne in the lead role of the elusive Jackal. Filming for the second season has taken place across multiple European locations, with Budapest serving as a key site for urban and historical scenes.
Budapest has turn into a frequent destination for international film productions due to its well-preserved architecture, competitive production incentives, and experienced local crews. The city’s landmarks, including St. Stephen’s Basilica, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and the Chain Bridge, have appeared in numerous films and television shows over the past decade.
Redmayne’s Oscar win came in 2015 for his portrayal of physicist Stephen Hawking in The Theory of Everything, a performance that also earned him a BAFTA, Golden Globe, and SAG Award. He has since been recognized for his work in The Danish Girl, Les Misérables, and the Fantastic Beasts franchise, where he plays magizoologist Newt Scamander.
As of Thursday afternoon, filming continued in the vicinity of St. Stephen’s Basilica, with crew members setting up lighting and cameras for additional takes. No official statements have been released by the production regarding the exact schedule or duration of the Budapest shoot.
The presence of high-profile actors like Redmayne underscores Budapest’s growing role as a European hub for film and television production. Industry analysts note that the city offers a blend of historic aesthetics and modern infrastructure that appeals to both period dramas and contemporary projects.
For updates on The Day of the Jackal and other productions filming in Budapest, viewers are encouraged to follow official announcements from Sky Studios and Peacock, as well as local film office resources that track ongoing shoots in the city.
What are your thoughts on seeing international film stars in Budapest? Share your experiences or sightings in the comments below, and sense free to share this article with others who might be interested in the city’s growing film scene.
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