Prime Video has unveiled the first teaser for Bloodaxe, an upcoming historical drama from Vikings creator Michael Hirst, confirming its January 20, 2027 release date. Revealed during New York Comic Con on October 9, the footage introduces a violent struggle for Norway’s throne, with rival brothers, shifting loyalties and religious conflict threatening to tear the kingdom apart. The eight-episode series stars Xavier Molyneux as legendary Viking warrior Erik Bloodaxe and Jessica Madsen as his formidable wife, Gunnhild.
The announcement also brings encouraging news for viewers interested in another Viking saga. Prime Video has already renewed Bloodaxe for a second season, which is currently in production in Ireland, several months before the first season’s premiere.
Bloodaxe Teaser Sets Up a Brutal Battle for Norway
Set in 10th-century Norway, Bloodaxe follows Erik Bloodaxe as he attempts to claim the throne during a period of political instability. With King Harald Fairhair’s reign approaching its end, rival members of the royal family begin positioning themselves for power.
The teaser introduces Erik’s conflict with his half-brother Haakon, played by Levi Miller. Their rivalry extends beyond succession, reflecting a growing division between traditional Norse pagan beliefs and Christianity.
Erik remains committed to the old gods and Viking traditions, while Haakon has been influenced by Christianity during his time in England. Their opposing beliefs add another dimension to a conflict already driven by ambition and family loyalty.
The footage features violent battles, royal confrontations and glimpses of Gunnhild, whose political influence is expected to play an important role in Erik’s ambitions.
Is Bloodaxe Connected to Vikings?
Although Bloodaxe comes from the creator of Vikings, it is not a direct sequel or spinoff. The new series tells a separate story set in the 10th century, between the historical periods depicted in Vikings and Vikings: Valhalla.
Michael Hirst developed the series alongside his son Horatio Hirst, with both serving as writers, showrunners and executive producers.
The cast also includes Jesper Christensen as King Harald Fairhair, Karlis Arnolds Avots as Egil Skallagrimsson, Rod Hallett as King Athelstan and Rune Temte as King Gorm.
One important difference from Vikings is the new show’s central relationship. Rather than building its story around Ragnar Lothbrok, Bloodaxe follows Erik and Gunnhild’s shared pursuit of power, exploring how their marriage and political ambitions shape their rise.
When Will Bloodaxe Release on Prime Video?
Bloodaxe will premiere exclusively on Prime Video on Wednesday, January 20, 2027, with all eight episodes available simultaneously in more than 240 countries and territories.
With Season 2 already filming, Amazon MGM Studios is clearly planning beyond the initial succession conflict. However, the second season’s premiere date has not been announced.
The teaser establishes a familiar world of Viking warfare while introducing a different historical rivalry. Whether Erik and Gunnhild can become as compelling as the characters from Hirst’s earlier Norse dramas will become clearer when Bloodaxe arrives in January.
