Bridgerton star Jessica Madsen has been confirmed as the co-lead in new period drama Bloodaxe.
The new Prime Video series tells the story of Norwegian king Erik Bloodaxe, and comes from Vikings creator Michael Hirst and brother Horatio.
Deadline now reports that Madsen will portray the titular character’s wife Gunnhild opposite Neighbours star Xavier Molyneux, who takes on the role of Eric.The show follows the pair’s “fight for the throne of Norway” as the “land is torn apart by fierce rivals, shifting loyalties, and bloody betrayals”.
“With war looming and chaos consuming the kingdom, drawing in the ruthless Kings of other Scandinavian countries, and even a powerful English ruler, the stage is set for a thundering, cataclysmic, compelling and utterly magical new Viking Saga,” the synopsis adds.
Upon the series’ announcement earlier this year, Hirst said in a statement: “I feel blessed and deeply excited that Amazon has given me the opportunity to return to the fantastic world of the Norse Sagas and the men, women and gods of the Viking world who have come to mean so much to me.
“Horatio and I intend to open your eyes to incredible new characters and unbelievable stories, all of which happen to be true and many of which changed the course of history.”
Amazon MGM studios head of television Vernon Sanders added that they are “thrilled to partner with Michael and Horatio Hirst, who have an impressive track record bringing historical dramas to life with stunning authenticity and gripping storytelling”.
“This story is a fascinating tale of Erik Bloodaxe and we can’t wait to unveil this new chapter to transport our global customers back to a fascinating era of history,” he added.
Madsen will be familiar to fans for playing Cressida Cowper in Bridgerton, while Molyneux has played the role of Byron Stone in Neighbours.
