Bloodaxe, Prime Video’s new Vikings replacement show, has cast its two lead actors. From Vikings creator Michael Hirst and his son Horatio Hirst, Prime Video’s upcoming historical drama series was officially ordered in March. It will chronicle the rise of one of the most legendary Viking warriors, Erik Bloodaxe, and his fierce wife as they battle to claim the Norwegian throne. As the realm descends into chaos, rival Scandinavian monarchs and a formidable English king are drawn into the conflict, setting the stage for a new Viking saga.
Now, the upcoming series has cast its two lead actors. According to Deadline, Xavier Molyneux has landed the titular role in Bloodaxe. Additionally, Deadline reports that Jessica Madsen has been cast as the female lead, Gunnhild, the wife of Erik Bloodaxe. Filming is set to begin in Ireland and Iceland later this summer.
What These Castings Mean For Bloodaxe
Who Are They & Who Are They Playing?
Xavier Molyneux is a relative newcomer, but an emerging Australian actor, having recently completed his stint on the iconic Aussie soap Neighbours and appeared in Netflix’s romantic drama Take My Hand. In Bloodaxe​​​​​​, he will take on the titular role of the legendary Viking warrior and king, known for his fierce conquests and brutal rule. Historically, Erik Bloodaxe was the son of Harald Fairhair, Norway’s first king, who fought ruthlessly for power and became a symbol of Norse ambition and violence.
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Jessica Madsen, on the other hand, is known for playing the fan-favorite mean girl Cressida Cowper in Bridgerton since season 1 and Clarice in the Texas Chainsaw Massacre movie Leatherface (2017). In Bloodaxe, she will take on the role of Erik’s fierce wife, Gunnhild, who was also known as the Mother of Kings since several of her sons became rulers in Norway. Historically, she was a powerful Viking noblewoman who was known for her influence and ambition.
Though it’s from the same creator as the History Channel series Vikings and its Netflix follow-up Vikings: Valhalla, Bloodaxe is not directly related to those series and will not serve as a continuation. In fact, Bloodaxe takes place decades after the original Vikings series and decades before Valhalla.
Our Take On Bloodaxe’s Castings
Are They Good Choices?
Xavier Molyneux’s recent roles in the soap opera Neighbours and Netflix romantic drama Take My Hand show he has the ability to portray emotional depth, but Bloodaxe will demand a more intense and commanding presence to embody Erik’s ruthless spirit. On the other hand, Jessica Madsen’s experience as the ill-mannered debutante in Bridgerton suggests she can bring the formidability required for Gunnhild. While both are relatively young for such legendary figures, their fresh energy could bring a compelling new take to their characters in Bloodaxe.
Source: Deadline
