Only Murders in the Building consistently keeps viewers on their toes with unexpected twists, quirky humor, and complex mysteries. Season 4 introduces another thrilling mystery, and by the finale, viewers know who the next victim will be.
However, as the trio of Charles (Steve Martin), Oliver (Martin Short), and Mable (Selena Gomez) work to uncover the culprit, they encounter a surprising series of events and revelations. The most impactful twist centers around Sazz Pataki (Jane Lynch), a long-time friend of Charles and an eccentric figure in her own right.
Her murder is more than just another case to solve—it reshapes the storyline, connecting multiple plot elements and allowing fans to gain new insights into her character.
A Familiar Character with a Shocking End
Sazz Pataki’s murder shocks the fanbase due to her close connection to Charles. Played brilliantly by Jane Lynch, Sazz brings both comedy and mystery to the show. She’s a stunt double and a friend with an enigmatic background, always helping Charles yet keeping a few secrets of her own.
Her unexpected murder at the end of Season 4 leaves viewers and the trio stunned. What makes the twist so effective is that viewers, like Charles, Oliver, and Mable, initially think they understand Sazz’s story and motives, only to be proven wrong.
This shift adds new layers to her character, making her seem less of a sidekick and more of a complex, multi-dimensional individual. Her death leads Charles, Oliver, and Mable into a whirlwind investigation filled with false leads and surprising twists. However, the biggest surprise is the actual reason behind her murder, which links back to her hidden ambition and her secret screenplay.
The Journey to Solve Sazz’s Case
The mystery starts when Charles, Oliver, and Mable receive the news of Sazz’s death, believing that she may have been investigating something that posed a threat to Charles. This idea fuels the initial stages of the investigation, as they show possible motives for why Sazz might have been targeted.
Charles takes the news especially hard, feeling guilty and worried that his presence or actions might have put Sazz in danger. He assumes her murder might have been tied to his work on the podcast or his role in the broader, mysterious happenings surrounding the trio.
Initially, they follow leads that suggest Sazz’s death may have been tied to the Westies, a shady group that could have targeted her due to her investigation into Charles. Another lead points to a man named Dudenoff (Griffin Dunne), whose involvement with the Westies adds another layer of intrigue.
Still from Only Murders in the Building (Credit: Hulu)
However, these paths turn out to be dead ends, confusing the trio even further. The twists and misleads make the investigation feel like a wild goose chase, with the team questioning nearly everything they’ve uncovered.
Unraveling Sazz’s Secrets: Her Hidden Ambition
The biggest breakthrough in Sazz’s case arrives when Charles, Oliver, and Mable discover a surprising piece of information: Sazz was working on a screenplay. This revelation seems unrelated at first, but as they dig deeper, they find that her script serves as a central link to the mystery.
This unexpected detail connects Sazz’s death to a larger plot involving a stolen script and an aspiring screenwriter. For Charles, this discovery opens up a side of Sazz he didn’t know existed. He realizes she had ambitions beyond her role as a stunt double and that she kept a personal dream hidden from him.
Charles, Oliver, and Mable’s Struggle with Sazz’s Case
The investigation into Sazz’s murder is one of the most challenging for the trio, as they encounter several theories and dead ends that take them far from the actual truth. Part of their difficulty stems from Sazz’s personality. Known for her friendly nature, Sazz wasn’t someone who made enemies easily.
In fact, her warm, outgoing personality made her well-liked by nearly everyone she met, even the most unlikely people. For instance, Jan Bellows, a convicted murderer, held a surprising fondness for Sazz. This added an element of mystery, as the trio struggled to figure out why anyone would want to harm her.
Charles, Oliver, and Mable begin to question if Sazz stumbled upon a dangerous conspiracy while researching their podcast. The fact that she was eager to have a serious conversation with Charles on the night of her death added fuel to this theory. However, as the season progresses, a seemingly unrelated plot point becomes crucial: the murder of Glen Stubbins (Paul Rudd), which ultimately helps steer them in the right direction.
Sazz’s Connection to Rex Bailey: The Stolen Script
While investigating Sazz’s case, the trio uncovers a key connection between Sazz and a character named Marshell P. Pope, who also goes by the name Rex Bailey (played by Jin Ha). Bailey is an aspiring screenwriter and, surprisingly, was once Sazz’s protégé in the stunt work world.
This unexpected relationship provides new insights into Sazz’s life, revealing that she had taken Bailey under her wing and mentored him.
Bailey eventually sold a script that, coincidentally, revolved around the lives of Charles, Oliver, and Mable. This unlikely connection provides the trio with a new lead, pointing to Bailey as someone with potential motives and access to Sazz’s personal work.
The real turning point arrives when Mable discovers Sazz’s original script, hidden inside a case of beer. This pivotal moment reveals the truth: the script Bailey sold was not his own—it was Sazz’s.
Realizing this, Charles, Oliver, and Mable understand that Sazz wasn’t murdered because she was protecting Charles, but because Bailey wanted her script for himself. This twist adds a new layer to the story, revealing Bailey’s ruthless ambition and his betrayal of Sazz.
Sazz’s Script: The Missing Piece of the Puzzle
The discovery of Sazz’s screenplay serves as the missing piece in the mystery, connecting various story elements that previously seemed unrelated. Her ambition as a screenwriter and her secret project become the reason for her death, bringing a tragic end to her creative pursuit.
Charles, Oliver, and Mable realize that Sazz’s involvement with Bailey, combined with his desire to use her work, led to her murder. The stolen script adds a darker undertone to the story, showing how ambition and betrayal can lead to devastating consequences.
The inclusion of the script also helps bridge the gap between the murder plot and the movie storyline, which previously seemed disconnected from the main mystery. By linking Sazz’s ambition to the events surrounding her death, the writers add depth to her character and provide a satisfying resolution to her arc.
Still from Only Murders in the Building (Credit: Hulu)
This discovery brings a sense of closure to Charles, who learns about Sazz’s hidden dream and her desire to contribute something meaningful beyond her usual work as a stunt double.
Charles’s Emotional Journey and His Guilt
Charles’s reaction to Sazz’s death adds another emotional layer to the season. Throughout the investigation, he grapples with feelings of guilt, believing he might have inadvertently caused her harm.
He becomes haunted by the idea that she died because of her connection to him, which makes him question his own choices and role in her life. This internal struggle reveals a more vulnerable side of Charles, as he comes to terms with the possibility that he wasn’t as good a friend to Sazz as he could have been.
As the trio goes into the investigation, Charles learns more about Sazz’s hidden life and realizes that he barely scratched the surface of who she was. Her death forces him to confront the ways he took her presence for granted, never fully understanding the dreams she held close.
This character growth adds depth to Charles’s journey and makes Sazz’s case one of the most personal and transformative stories in the series.
Sazz’s Character Arc and the Finale’s Impact
The final reveal about Sazz’s script and Bailey’s betrayal gives her character arc a satisfying, though tragic, resolution. Her ambitions, which were hidden from even her closest friends, become the driving force behind the season’s most significant twist.
By giving her character an unexpected creative drive, the show deepens the impact of her death, turning it into more than just another crime to solve. Sazz’s secret passion makes her death feel even more poignant, as viewers recognize the potential she had and the life she envisioned for herself beyond stunt work.
This shift changes the tone of the season’s ending, adding a sense of bittersweet tragedy. The focus on Sazz’s unrealized dreams and her relationship with Charles adds an emotional depth to the series that resonates with viewers. Her death becomes a way for the show to show themes of friendship, ambition, and unfulfilled dreams, making her story one of the most memorable arcs in Only Murders in the Building.
The Broader Impact on the Series
Sazz’s murder and the discovery of her screenplay mark a turning point in Only Murders in the Building, setting a new standard for how the show intertwines character development with mystery. Each season has introduced unique mysteries, but Sazz’s case is distinct in its layered storytelling and emotional depth.
Her death serves as more than just a plot twist; it becomes an avenue for showing friendship, ambition, and the hidden facets of her character, adding richness to both her role and Charles’s journey. This balance of humor, mystery, and emotional impact elevates the story, making it one of the most memorable arcs in the series.
This new complexity in storytelling shows the series’ ability to handle darker themes and character-driven stories without losing its signature comedic flair. It also suggests how future mysteries might be crafted, not just focusing on plot twists but building out the backstories and dreams of supporting characters to create more meaningful connections with the main trio.
By centering on Sazz’s character in this season, the series shifts its approach to include more personal stakes, showing the audience that the mystery isn’t just about uncovering a murderer—it’s also about revealing hidden truths about the people involved.
Charles, Oliver, and Mable: New Perspectives and Bonds
Charles, Oliver, and Mable have each grown through their investigation of Sazz’s death. While the previous cases in the series have pushed them to become better detectives, this case has pushed them to become better friends with each other.
Charles’s guilt over Sazz’s death drives him to take a more introspective look at his friendships, realizing he may not know the people closest to him as well as he thought. Sazz’s murder brings him to a realization that friendships require more openness, vulnerability, and appreciation.
Oliver, who often focuses on the theatrical and humorous aspects of their cases, is also affected by Sazz’s death. He sees firsthand how a person’s story can be so much more than what’s visible, pushing him to take their work as podcasters and amateur detectives even more seriously.
Oliver learns that even his smallest interactions and friendships can contain stories worth cherishing and that even the most lighthearted investigations can lead to unexpected, meaningful revelations.
Mable, who has grown into her role as a detective, feels the gravity of Sazz’s murder as a reminder that every case is personal to someone. Her commitment to uncovering the truth becomes stronger, as she realizes that solving murders isn’t just about answering questions—it’s about honoring the lives lost and the secrets they leave behind.
By the end of the season, Mable, Charles, and Oliver emerge with a deeper bond, understanding that their friendship is rooted not only in solving mysteries but in appreciating the nuances and dreams of the people around them.
A Final Farewell to Sazz
In the closing moments of the season, Charles finally gets a chance to say goodbye to Sazz in his own way. Reflecting on their friendship, he realizes how much Sazz meant to him and how her hidden ambitions make her death feel even more poignant.
Charles regrets not knowing her better but finds comfort in the thought that Sazz’s story has been shared through their journey. The screenplay she left behind becomes a testament to her dreams, reminding Charles and the audience of her creative spark and tenacity.
Still from Only Murders in the Building (Credit: Hulu)
For Charles, Sazz’s death leaves an indelible impact. Her script is a reminder of the hidden dreams that everyone may carry, and it drives him to be more open to the stories of those around him. The tribute serves as a fitting farewell to a beloved character, showing that her life, while cut short, left a legacy in the friendships she touched and the story she never got to tell.
The Future of Only Murders in the Building
Sazz’s murder mystery marks a defining chapter in Only Murders in the Building. It shows that the series is capable of not only delivering compelling whodunits but also tackling deeper themes of friendship, ambition, and hidden dreams.
With this mystery wrapped up, the trio’s future looks bright, though they’ll likely carry the lessons of Sazz’s case with them. The deeper emotional stakes introduced this season may set the tone for future mysteries, encouraging viewers to look beyond the surface of each character and appreciate the human stories behind every investigation.
Fans are now eagerly waiting to see what new cases will come to light in Season 5, hoping that the mysteries will continue to blend humor, suspense, and heartwarming character moments. Only Murders in the Building has set a new benchmark with Sazz’s murder arc, showing that even in the pursuit of justice, there are stories of hidden passions, unspoken dreams, and complex friendships waiting to be uncovered.
Conclusion
Sazz Pataki’s murder became more than just another case for Charles, Oliver, and Mable. It allowed the trio to grow in ways they hadn’t before, revealing hidden aspects of Sazz’s character and bringing deeper emotional weight to the series.
Still from Only Murders in the Building (Credit: Hulu)
The discovery of her script, her ambitions, and the betrayal she faced transformed her death into one of the most compelling mysteries Only Murders in the Building has ever tackled. With each twist and revelation, Sazz’s story reminded fans that everyone has a story worth telling, even if it’s hidden beneath layers of humor, friendship, and secrets.
Only Murders in the Building continues to be available for streaming on Hulu in the United States, inviting fans to experience this unforgettable season and all the twists and turns of the show’s latest mystery.
When Frederick Forsyth’s novel The Day of the Jackal was released in 1971, it quickly became a sensation for its gripping portrayal of an assassination plot targeting French President Charles de Gaulle.
The novel inspired a 1973 film adaptation directed by Fred Zinnemann that earned critical praise for its tight plotting and the powerful suspense of its storyline.
Now, more than fifty years later, The Day of the Jackal is returning to audiences with a new television series adaptation of Peacock. This version updates the iconic spy thriller, weaving its timeless suspense into the modern world and showing how the central premise still holds up today.
With a setting that tackles contemporary issues and a story brought to life by powerhouse performances from Eddie Redmayne and Lashana Lynch, The Day of the Jackal combines the classic thrills of the original story with new layers of complexity.
By modernizing the novel’s plot while keeping the heart of its tension alive, Peacock’s version of The Day of the Jackal appeals to today’s audiences who want both high-stakes drama and a nuanced character scheme. Here’s a closer look at the new series, its storyline, its cast, and why this fresh adaptation stands out.
The Story: Assassination, Power, and the Impossible Hunt
In the original The Day of the Jackal novel and 1973 film, the story follows a group of far-right extremists plotting to assassinate Charles de Gaulle, who was then the president of France. They enlist a mysterious assassin known only as “the Jackal” to complete the task, leading to a suspenseful game of cat and mouse between law enforcement and the hired killer.
Though the novel was inspired by an actual assassination attempt on de Gaulle’s life, much of the story is fictionalized. In Peacock’s adaptation, however, the premise receives a modern update, trading 1960s Paris for a setting that incorporates present-day themes and a storyline that feels especially timely.
In the new series, Eddie Redmayne plays the Jackal, a highly skilled assassin hired by wealthy, powerful figures with a vested interest in keeping global financial systems opaque and free from regulatory scrutiny. When a man threatens to expose some of the darker financial secrets of the world’s elite, these figures turn to the Jackal to take him out.
Redmayne’s Jackal is introduced as a character with immense skill, but he operates with a calculated restraint that makes his scenes all the more tense. He is both a professional and a perfectionist, a character whose calm exterior hides a dangerously sharp mind.
The story introduces Lashana Lynch as Bianca Pullman, a driven and dedicated operative who becomes entwined in the plot when the Jackal’s near-impossible assassination draws her attention. Bianca’s pursuit of the Jackal takes her across Europe, showing political obstacles and engaging with the powerful elite who will do anything to keep her from uncovering the truth.
As Bianca follows his trail, she realizes that her target is not only elusive but capable of almost supernatural feats of skill—an assassin who leaves no trace and who always seems to be a step ahead.
The modern-day setting of The Day of the Jackal brings additional elements of complexity to the story, such as surveillance technology, advanced weaponry, and modern transportation. These additions create both advantages and obstacles for the main characters.
On the one hand, the Jackal has new tools at his disposal to execute his assignments, including technology that can obscure his whereabouts and capabilities that make him nearly invisible to those tracking him. On the other hand, Bianca can use her own resources, including modern investigative techniques, making her a formidable opponent in the high-stakes game of cat and mouse.
Themes of Global Power and Transparency
One of the ways Peacock’s The Day of the Jackal series stands out is in its treatment of the original novel’s themes. While the 1973 film adaptation stayed closer to the political context of the 1960s, this new series taps into issues that resonate with today’s audience, particularly the themes of wealth inequality and financial transparency.
By anchoring the story in a modern context, the series creates a heightened sense of relevance, allowing the characters’ motivations to feel rooted in real-world concerns.
In recent years, the topics of global financial secrecy and inequality have become increasingly prominent, making this new Day of the Jackal especially timely. The series paints a world in which the powerful seek to preserve their interests by manipulating global systems in their favor, using wealth as a shield against accountability.
The Jackal, working on behalf of these elites, becomes a symbol of how ruthlessly they are willing to act to protect their privileges. As Bianca attempts to dismantle these forces, she finds herself not only in pursuit of a man but challenging a system that is deliberately designed to be impenetrable.
By focusing on this angle, The Day of the Jackal manages to feel both like a traditional spy thriller and a social commentary on the forces shaping our world today. The storyline takes a critical look at how unchecked power allows certain individuals to operate outside the boundaries of the law, hiding behind money and influence.
The show skillfully weaves these issues into the plot without detracting from the core suspense, adding a layer of depth to a familiar genre.
The Characters: Bianca Pullman and the Jackal
At the heart of The Day of the Jackal are its two main characters, Bianca Pullman and the Jackal, played by Lashana Lynch and Eddie Redmayne, respectively. Their performances bring a powerful dynamic to the series, adding emotional complexity to their intense rivalry.
Rather than playing straightforward roles, Lynch and Redmayne create layered portrayals of their characters, with each actor bringing unique nuances to the parts that make their characters feel like complete, multi-dimensional people.
Bianca Pullman is portrayed as a smart, dedicated operative who will go to great lengths to catch her target. Lynch, known for her role as 007’s Nomi in No Time To Die, brings both strength and vulnerability to Bianca’s character.
Unlike some typical spy protagonists, Bianca isn’t immune to making mistakes or becoming overly fixated on her mission. As the story unfolds, her character’s moral boundaries begin to blur, leading her to make choices that push her ethical limits in her pursuit of the Jackal. These choices create a layered portrayal of a woman who is determined to do the right thing, even when the right thing becomes increasingly complicated.
On the other side, Eddie Redmayne’s Jackal is as calculating as he is charismatic. Known for his ability to convey subtle emotions and a quiet intensity, Redmayne brings an eerie calm to the character.
His Jackal is no mere cold-blooded killer; instead, he’s portrayed as a complex figure with his own sense of purpose and even warmth, particularly in his scenes with his wife, Nuria (played by Úrsula Corberó).
This version of the Jackal feels grounded and surprisingly human, even as he takes on impossible tasks. Rather than presenting him as a sociopath, the series gives him a depth that makes him feel like a more nuanced antagonist.
Their interactions fuel the tension of the story, as the rivalry between Bianca and the Jackal becomes increasingly personal. The series skillfully builds their cat-and-mouse game to a climax, showing how their individual personalities and motivations collide.
Still from The Day of the Jackal (Credit: Peacock)
Each character’s choices reveal more about who they are, creating a sense of suspense that goes beyond the surface-level plot. The complexity of their relationship adds to the series’ full suspense, as viewers become invested not only in the outcome of their chase but in the evolving dynamic between two characters who are both chasing something they believe in.
An Elegantly Crafted Spy Thriller
One of the standout qualities of The Day of the Jackal series is its ability to maintain suspense without relying on flashy, over-the-top effects. The series uses strong plotting and tight pacing to keep viewers engaged, crafting tension through storytelling rather than excessive gimmicks.
From start to finish, the series is carefully structured, balancing action scenes with quieter moments that allow the audience to connect with the characters on a deeper level.
Peacock’s adaptation leans into the classic spy thriller elements that have made The Day of the Jackal such an enduring story, using modern filmmaking techniques to add visual depth to the series. Cinematography plays an essential role in creating the tension-filled atmosphere of the series, with scenic European backdrops providing a contrast to the intensity of the plot.
The European settings, including sprawling cityscapes and remote, almost isolating views, give a sense of both beauty and danger, framing the characters’ movements and decisions within a context that feels both expansive and claustrophobic.
The series also makes effective use of modern technology, subtly updating the original narrative to fit into today’s world. Surveillance systems, advanced weaponry, and data analysis add to the realism of the plot, creating an environment where the stakes feel high and the risks tangible.
However, rather than overshadowing the characters, these elements serve to amplify the suspense and tension of the story, allowing the characters’ actions to carry more weight.
The Impact of the Original Novel and Film
To fully appreciate the significance of Peacock’s The Day of the Jackal, it is essential to reflect on the legacy of Frederick Forsyth’s original novel and the 1973 film adaptation. Forsyth’s novel set a high standard for the thriller genre, combining meticulous research with a tightly woven plot.
Its unique structure, told from multiple perspectives, provided readers with a multifaceted view of the assassination attempt. The Jackal was not just a faceless villain; he became a character of great intrigue, embodying the complexities of a man driven to execute an impossible task for a cause he believed in.
The 1973 film, featuring Edward Fox as the Jackal and directed by Fred Zinnemann, was groundbreaking in its portrayal of espionage and assassination. The film’s pacing, attention to detail, and tense atmosphere captured audiences and critics alike.
It became a benchmark for future thrillers, influencing how stories in this genre are crafted. However, despite its acclaim, the film reflected the values and circumstances of its time, often lacking the nuanced scheme of themes such as gender, race, and socio-political dynamics that contemporary viewers might expect today.
Peacock’s adaptation takes these foundational elements and transforms them for a modern audience. It retains the core premise of a high-stakes assassination plot while layering contemporary societal issues, making the story more relatable to today’s viewers.
Still from The Day of the Jackal (Credit: Peacock)
By focusing on themes such as financial inequality and corporate greed, the series not only updates the plot but also resonates with current global conversations. This thoughtful approach allows the show to stand on its own while honoring the legacy of its predecessors.
The Evolution of the Spy Genre
The spy genre has evolved significantly since the days of Forsyth’s novel and Zinnemann’s film. The 1970s was a decade characterized by Cold War tensions and political intrigue, resulting in stories that often depicted spies as shadowy figures operating behind the scenes of global politics. As society has changed, so too has the portrayal of spies and assassins in popular culture.
In recent years, there has been a shift towards more complex, morally ambiguous characters who reflect the complexities of modern life. Audiences now seek stories that not only entertain but also challenge their perceptions of right and wrong.
The rise of technology increased globalization, and the interconnectedness of financial markets have all contributed to the evolution of the spy thriller, as writers show how these elements influence power dynamics and personal motivations.
Peacock’s The Day of the Jackal fits neatly into this evolution by providing characters who are not just defined by their roles as assassins and pursuers but by their personal journeys. Bianca and the Jackal are portrayed as flawed individuals grappling with their choices, moral dilemmas, and the implications of their actions.
This character-driven approach allows for deeper storytelling that goes beyond mere action sequences, creating a narrative that engages viewers on multiple levels.
Anticipating Audience Reactions
As the series nears its premiere, expectations are high for how audiences will receive this modern adaptation. Given the legacy of the original work and the critical acclaim of its early promotional materials, viewers are eager to see how the series balances respect for the source material with innovative storytelling.
The success of this adaptation may hinge on its ability to attract both fans of the original novel and film, as well as a new generation of viewers who may be less familiar with the classic story.
By incorporating contemporary themes and relatable characters, the series has the potential to draw in a diverse audience, allowing for discussions around the pressing issues of financial transparency and power in the modern world.
Critics and fans alike are likely to engage with the series through discussions on its themes, character development, and pacing. This engagement could lead to a renewed interest in Forsyth’s original novel, drawing attention to the historical context of the story while highlighting its relevance today.
As viewers tune in, they may find themselves reflecting on the complexities of the world around them and the often blurred lines between right and wrong.
Final Reflections: A Series with Lasting Appeal
The Day of the Jackal on Peacock stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. By reimagining a classic narrative for modern audiences, the series not only pays homage to its roots but also addresses issues that resonate with viewers today. The performances by Eddie Redmayne and Lashana Lynch upgrade the material, grounding the high-stakes drama in relatable human experiences.
Still from The Day of the Jackal (Credit: Peacock)
As the series unfolds, viewers will likely find themselves captured by the intricate dance between Bianca and the Jackal, their motivations, and the moral complexities they show. With its tight plotting, strong character work, and relevant themes, The Day of the Jackal promises to be a thrilling and thought-provoking addition to the spy genre.
In an era where many spy thrillers can feel formulaic or overly reliant on spectacle, Peacock’s adaptation offers a refreshing perspective that combines intelligent writing with compelling performances. This approach not only enhances the viewing experience but also sets a high standard for future adaptations in the genre.
As the world continues to grapple with issues of power, inequality, and moral ambiguity, The Day of the Jackal serves as a reminder that the stories we tell—whether through the lens of espionage or personal conflict—can resonate deeply with our current realities.
As audiences prepare to watch, one thing is clear: the tension, intrigue, and complex character dynamics of The Day of the Jackal will leave a lasting impression, ensuring that this adaptation becomes a significant part of the conversation around modern thrillers.
