Michael Hirst, the visionary behind acclaimed series like “Vikings” and “The Tudors,” is once again setting sail into Norse mythology. Amazon Prime Video has officially greenlit “Bloodaxe,” a historical drama chronicling the tumultuous lives of Viking warrior Erik Bloodaxe and his wife, Gunnhild, often referred to as the Mother of Kings.
Background on Erik Bloodaxe and Gunnhild:
Erik Bloodaxe, a name that evokes both fear and admiration, was a 10th-century Norwegian king known for his fierce demeanor and relentless ambition. As one of the many sons of Harald Fairhair, Norway's first king, Erik's quest for power led him down a path marked by both conquest and controversy. His epithet, “Bloodaxe,” is believed to stem from his brutal methods in securing and maintaining authority.
Gunnhild, his equally formidable wife, holds a significant place in Viking history. Sources vary regarding her lineage; while some sagas describe her as the daughter of the mysterious Ozur Toti from Halogaland, others, like the “Historia Norwegiæ,” suggest she was the daughter of Gorm the Old, the Danish king. Regardless of her origins, Gunnhild's influence was undeniable. She was renowned for her beauty, intelligence, and, as some sagas suggest, her involvement in sorcery. Together, Erik and Gunnhild navigated the treacherous waters of Viking politics, facing exile, battles, and the challenges of ruling.
The Vision Behind “Bloodaxe”:
“Bloodaxe” marks Hirst's third foray into Viking narratives, following the success of the History Channel's “Vikings” and its Netflix spin-off, “Vikings: Valhalla.” However, it's essential to note that “Bloodaxe” stands as an independent narrative, unconnected to its predecessors.
Collaborating with his son, Horatio Hirst, Michael Hirst aims to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Norse sagas. In a statement, he expressed his enthusiasm:
“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.”
Production Details:
The series is set to be produced by MGM Television, with an impressive lineup of executive producers, including Steve Stark, Arturo Interian, Morgan O'Sullivan, John Weber, and Sheila Hockin. While specific casting details and a release date have yet to be announced, the announcement has already generated significant buzz among fans of historical dramas.
Michael Hirst's dedication to bringing Viking sagas to life has consistently captivated audiences worldwide. With “Bloodaxe,” there's an opportunity to delve into the intricate dynamics of power, loyalty, and ambition that defined Erik and Gunnhild's lives. Given Hirst's track record, expectations are high for a series that combines historical authenticity with compelling storytelling. As we await further details, one can't help but feel a surge of excitement for what's to come.
What aspects of Viking history are you most eager to see explored in “Bloodaxe,” and how do you think Michael Hirst will bring these legendary figures to life?
