From Amazon and MGM comes Bloodaxe, an all-new Viking series from Vikings creator Michael Hirst and his son Heratio Hirst. The series, set decades after the original Vikings show and decades before its spinoff Vikings: Valhalla, follows Eric Bloodaxe, one of the most famous Vikings that ever lived.
While no casting had been officially announced, Deadline has revealed that Australian actor Xavier Molyneux (Take My Hand, Aussie of the Year) has landed the leading role. Molyneux is a largely unknown actor probably best known for his recurring role in the soap Neighbours. His casting recalls that of Australian actor Travis Fimmel, who landed the lead role of Ragnar Lothbrok in the original Vikings series.
The Amazon/MGM series follows Bloodaxe and his wife Gunnhild, Mother of Kings, as they fight for the throne of Norway, a throne sought after by several different factions. The conflict draws attention across Scandinavia and England. Prepare for a series rife with blood, battles, and backstabbing galore.
In history, Eric Bloodaxe was the son of Norwegian King Harald Fairhair (played by Peter Franzén in Vikings). One of the most recognizable names in Viking history, Bloodaxe continued the Fairhair dynasty, ruling as King of Norway from 932 to 934. He was also influential on English shores, becoming King of Northumbria twice over in his later years. Of course, he's credited with enduring success in countless battles across his lifetime; his very name, Bloodaxe, suggests as much.
Production on Bloodaxe is scheduled to begin in Ireland in July, likely using the same locations as both Vikings and Vikings: Valhalla, both of which filmed in Ireland. Will we see another version of the port town of Kattegat, which has shown up in both Vikings and Vikings: Valhalla? I'd be surprised if we didn't; Kattegat has become a character in itself, growing and developing through seasons and spinoff projects. Keep checking back for updates!
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