Prime Video has unveiled the first-look images for ‘Bloodaxe’, its new Norse historical drama from Michael Hirst, creator of ‘Vikings’, and fellow showrunner Horatio Hirst. With a fight for Norway’s throne at its centre, this sounds like a series where family disagreements are unlikely to be settled over a nice cup of tea.
The eight-episode first season follows Erik Bloodaxe, one of history’s most famous Norse raiders, and his formidable wife Gunnhild, known as the Mother of Kings. Xavier Molyneux (‘Neighbours’) takes the title role, with Jessica Madsen (‘Bridgerton’) starring as Gunnhild. That is quite a change of scenery from Ramsay Street and the ballrooms of the ton, although neither of those places is exactly short on feuding families.
As Erik and Gunnhild fight for the throne of Norway, the kingdom is pulled apart by fierce rivals, changing loyalties and bloody betrayals. Their ambitions unfold against the growing threat of war, with rulers from elsewhere in Scandinavia and a powerful English ruler drawn into the struggle.
The premise puts the couple’s partnership at the heart of a much wider contest for power. Winning a crown is one thing; keeping it when the people around you have their own plans is another matter entirely. Prime Video is promising an action-packed saga, so expect the political manoeuvring to come with rather more sharp objects than your average leadership contest.
For viewers who enjoyed the mix of ambition, rivalries and battles in ‘Vikings’, Michael Hirst’s involvement is an obvious reason to keep an eye on this one. ‘Bloodaxe’ gives him and Horatio Hirst a new central couple whose pursuit of power can take the story across competing kingdoms. The announced premise also leaves plenty of room for Gunnhild to be a driving force alongside Erik, with both characters named at the centre of the struggle for Norway.
The first-season ensemble also includes Karlis Arnolds Avots (‘January’), Levi Miller (‘Pan’), Rod Hallett (‘The Last Kingdom’), Alina Tomnikov (‘Deadwind’), Sisse Marie (‘Rebel Moon’), Rune Temte (‘The Last Kingdom’) and Jesper Christensen (‘Casino Royale’).
Michael and Horatio Hirst write, executive produce and serve as showrunners. The other executive producers are Morgan O’Sullivan, through O’Sullivan Productions, Steve Stark, through Toluca Pictures, Arturo Interian, John Weber and Sheila Hockin.
There is already more of the saga on the way. Prime Video previously renewed ‘Bloodaxe’ for a second season, which is currently in production in Ireland. That means the first-look reveal arrives with the next chapter already being made, even while viewers are waiting to meet Erik and Gunnhild.
The release confirms that the eight-episode first season will premiere exclusively on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide. For UK viewers, the streaming home is therefore confirmed, although the announcement leaves the release timing under wraps. For now, these first-look images offer an introduction to the new saga while we wait for Prime Video to reveal when the battle begins.
‘Bloodaxe’ Season 1 will premiere exclusively on Prime Video. A UK premiere date has not yet been announced.
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