Bloodaxe: Prime Video’s New Viking Saga Brings Power, Betrayal, and Bloodlines to the Screen
Amazon Prime Video is set to launch a bold new Viking series that dives into the legendary rise of Erik Bloodaxe, one of Norse history’s most notorious rulers. Titled Bloodaxe, this new historical drama is brought to life by Vikings creator Michael Hirst and promises a gripping tale of political ambition, war, and the forging of empires.
If you’re a fan of Viking epics and medieval power struggles, Bloodaxe could be your next must-watch—and possibly your next audition opportunity.
Plot Summary
Set in 10th-century Scandinavia, Bloodaxe chronicles the ascent of Erik Bloodaxe, a warrior-king with a fierce claim to the Norwegian throne. As the son of King Harald Fairhair, Erik faces deadly rivalry from his own brothers and rising warlords eager to divide the kingdom. At his side is his formidable wife, Gunnhild, a politically astute queen known in legend as the “Mother of Kings.”
Together, Erik and Gunnhild navigate betrayals, shifting alliances, and looming invasions. With enemies surrounding them—including powerful Scandinavian kings and a calculating English monarch—the stakes escalate into a full-scale war for supremacy. The series promises a thunderous, visceral experience full of political intrigue, raw emotion, and the violent mythology that defines Viking storytelling.
Cast Highlights
- Xavier Molyneux stars as Erik Bloodaxe, taking on a leading role after gaining attention in Neighbours.
- Jessica Madsen portrays Gunnhild, a queen as ruthless as she is strategic.
- Levi Miller plays Haakon the Good, Erik’s younger half-brother and eventual political adversary.
- Jesper Christensen appears as King Harald Fairhair, the aging patriarch of a fractured royal lineage.
- Other notable cast members include Rod Hallett as King Athelstan of Wessex, Rune Temte as King Gorm of Denmark, Sisse Marie as Queen Thyra, and Alina Tomnikov as the prophetic Seer Greta.
Creative Team and Production
Bloodaxe is developed by Michael Hirst, the creator of Vikings and The Tudors, alongside his son Horatio Hirst, who makes his screenwriting debut with the series. The father-son writing duo brings a blend of historical depth and generational perspective to the story.
The series is produced by Amazon MGM Studios, MGM Television, Toluca Pictures, and O’Sullivan Productions, with filming beginning in County Wicklow, Ireland in June 2025. Additional locations are expected in Iceland to capture the full scope of the Viking world. While an exact release date has yet to be announced, the series is expected to premiere in 2026.
Executive producers include Michael Hirst, Horatio Hirst, Steve Stark, Arturo Interian, Morgan O’Sullivan, John Weber, and Sheila Hockin—many of whom also worked on Vikings and Vikings: Valhalla.
Why Bloodaxe Is a Must-Watch
Bloodaxe continues the legacy of popular Norse sagas while carving out a distinct identity. Unlike previous Viking series, this show focuses on a real historical figure whose life story blends legend with recorded history. Erik Bloodaxe’s turbulent reign, violent rise, and dramatic downfall offer fertile ground for emotional storytelling and sweeping visual drama.
- Standalone yet familiar: Set after the events of Vikings but before Valhalla, the series offers a fresh narrative that new viewers can enjoy while maintaining thematic ties to its predecessors.
- Authentic and cinematic: With a top-tier cast, gritty historical realism, and high production values, Bloodaxe aims to rival any large-scale period drama on television.
- Timely themes: The story explores power, loyalty, betrayal, and the fragile nature of leadership—timeless themes that resonate across eras.
Stay Connected with Project Casting
Looking to join the world of historical epics like Bloodaxe? Whether you’re a trained actor, stunt performer, or background extra, Project Casting connects you to the latest casting calls and production opportunities in television and film.
To audition for a role in Bloodaxe, stay tuned to Project Casting. We’ll keep you posted as soon as jobs become available.
