'Bloodaxe' trailer: Prime Video’s new Norse saga brings a brutal fight for Norway’s throne

The official teaser trailer for "Bloodaxe", unveiled at New York Comic Con, introduces a violent struggle for power in 10th-century Norway. Set in 927 AD, the historical drama follows Viking warrior Erik Bloodaxe’s fight to claim the Norwegian throne as rivalries between royal brothers threaten to tear the kingdom apart.

The story begins with the ageing King Harald Fairhair approaching death. With no clear path to a peaceful succession, his sons prepare to fight for control of the kingdom.

At the centre of the conflict is Erik Bloodaxe, played by Xavier Molyneux. Determined to secure the throne, Erik follows the old Norse pagan traditions and uses violence to establish his authority. His wife, Gunnhild, Mother of Kings, supports him. Jessica Madsen portrays her as an ambitious and politically skilled partner in his quest for power.

However, Erik faces a major challenge from his younger brother, Haakon. Raised in Christian Wessex under the protection of King Athelstan, Haakon returns to Norway with the backing of a powerful English fleet. His arrival threatens Erik’s claim and introduces a religious conflict in the battle for the crown.

The struggle is not just about who will rule Norway. It also reflects the growing tension between the region’s traditional pagan beliefs and the spread of Christianity. Haakon’s supporters demand that he abandon his Christian faith if he is eyeing the throne of the king, placing him in a difficult position between his religious beliefs and his political ambitions.

The teaser promises intense battles, betrayal and a major siege on Erik’s stronghold. With rival Scandinavian kingdoms and English rulers involved, the fight for Norway’s throne threatens to grow into a much larger conflict.

From the creators of 'Vikings'

"Bloodaxe" is created and written by Michael Hirst, known for Vikings and “The Tudors”, alongside his son Horatio Hirst. The series is being filmed at Ashford Studios in Ireland, which also served as a production base for the original Vikings series. It draws on the experience of crew members and design specialists who worked on the earlier show.

Prime Video has already renewed the series for a second season ahead of its premiere, signalling plans to continue the story beyond its opening chapter.

The first season will consist of eight episodes, all released simultaneously on January 20, 2027, exclusively on Prime Video.

The real history behind Erik Bloodaxe

The series is inspired by the life of Eric Haraldsson, better known as Eric Bloodaxe, a Viking ruler from the 10th century. Historical accounts tie him to a violent struggle for power among Norway’s royal family.

Eric ruled Norway briefly before his brother Haakon. He later became king of Northumbria in England, reigning two separate periods, 947 to 948 and again from 952 to 954.

His nickname, Bloodaxe, and his traditional title, Brother-Slayer, reflect his reputation for violence and the stories of conflict with his half-brothers. Although the historical record is incomplete and some details remain debated, his life provides the basis for a story of family rivalry, political ambition and shifting religious beliefs.