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Some days you feel like curling up on the couch, putting something on the TV, and getting your base instincts stimulated.

Shows that are heavy on violence can be pretty entertaining as the creative team devises new ways to make you recoil at the thought of being on the receiving end of what’s happening.

Violence on TV doesn’t have to be gratuitous, and enjoying it doesn’t mean you’re depraved. It can serve a bigger purpose than entertainment, elevating a show by accurately depicting certain times and places where violence was the norm.

(Sky/Cinemax/HBO [Screenshot]])

It’s an opportunity to comment on the complex history of the human race, the progress we’ve made, and the road we must travel.

The shows in this list stand out because of their ability to use violence as art. These carefully choreographed scenes constitute a significant feat in television production.

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Chief of War is a historical drama series co-created by Thomas Paʻa Sibbett and Jason Momoa. Based on true events, the Apple TV+ series is set in the 18th century, and it follows a Hawaiian warrior chief as he unites the warring Hawaiian islands to fight against the colonialists. Chief of War stars Jason Momoa, Luciane Buchanan, Te Ao o Hinepehinga, Te Kohe Tuhaka, Brandon Finn, Siua Ikaleʻo, Mainei Kinimaka, and Roimata Fox. So, if you loved the historical setting, intense story, and compelling characters in Apple TV+’s Chief of War, here are some similar shows you should check out next.

Barkskins (Rent on Prime Video) Credit – Nat Geo

Barkskins is a historical drama series created by Elwood Reid. Based on the 2016 novel of the same name by Annie Proulx, the National Geographic series is set in the 1600s,...

Henry Cavill’s Period Drama Returns To Streaming(Photo Credit –Facebook)

Henry Cavill’s name has been drawing attention again after being replaced as Superman by David Corenswet but his earlier work is finding a fresh audience. Nearly two decades ago, he appeared in The Tudors, a historical drama that has returned to streaming charts. Cavill shared the screen with Jonathan Rhys Meyers and Anthony Brophy in the story of a young king consumed by his pursuit of a male heir.

All four seasons are now available on Prime Video and Paramount+ in the United States, while the show is trending internationally in places like the Netherlands and Taiwan, per Collider. Critics gave it a respectable 69 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, while audiences pushed it to 84 percent, with Season 3 often regarded as the standout at an impressive 90 percent.

henry cavill in ‘the tudors’ pic.twitter.com/qBpVQlW8ho

— 2000s (@PopCulture2000s...

Henry Cavill’s name has been circulating after being replaced as Superman by David Corenswet, but nearly 20 years ago, he starred in a historical soap opera that’s returned to streaming charts. Cavill stars alongside Jonathan Rhys Meyers (Vikings) and Anthony Brophy (The Devil’s Own) in The Tudors, the costume drama following the scandalous life of a young king and his obsession with producing a male heir. All four seasons of the show are streaming on both Prime Video and Paramount+ in America, but globally, the series is trending in countries such as the Netherlands and Taiwan. The Tudors earned solid scores of 69% from critics and 84% from audiences on Rotten Tomatoes, with Season 3 being well-regarded as the strongest of the bunch, earning a nearly flawless 90% on the Tomatometer.

Michael Hirst is the sole writer and creator of The Tudors, but he recruited directors like Ciaran Donnelly, Jeremy Podeswa, and Dearbhla Walsh...

From Amazon and MGM comes Bloodaxe, an all-new Viking series fromVikings creator Michael Hirst and his son Heratio Hirst. The series, set decades after the original, beloved Vikings series and decades before its spinoff Vikings: Valhalla, follows Eric Bloodaxe, one of the most famous Vikings that ever lived.

The Amazon Prime Video/MGM series follows legendary Viking Eric Bloodaxe and his wife Gunnhild, Mother of Kings, as they fight for the throne of Norway, a throne sought after by several different factions. The conflict draws attention across Scandinavia and England. Prepare for a series rife with blood, battles, and backstabbing.

We previously reported that the series has found its lead star in the form of Australian actor Xavier Molyneux. Now, a report from Deadline has revealed six more actors entering the fray. The new cast members are:

Karlis Arnolds Avots (January)Rod Hallett (Suspect: The Shooting of Jean Charles De Menezes...

Prime Video has locked in six new cast members for Bloodaxe, with filming set to begin this summer in Ireland and Iceland. Karlis Arnolds Avots, Rod Hallett, Alina Tomnikov, Sisse Marie, and Rune Temte join as series regulars. Jesper Christensen also boards in a recurring role. Created by Michael Hirst and Horatio Hirst, the historical […]

Bloodaxe Casts Six Series Regulars Ahead of Prime Video Shoot...

Michael Hirst is making another Viking drama. Casting is currently underway on Bloodaxe, with seven more actors having been announced for the upcoming Prime Video series.

According to Deadline, Rebel Moon actor Sisse Marie has joined Bloodaxe as a series regular alongside Karlis Arnolds Avots (January), Rod Hallett (Suspect: The Shooting of Jean Charles De Menezes), Alina Tomnikov (Donna), and Rune Temte (Eddie the Eagle). Additionally, Jesper Christensen has boarded the drama series in a recurring role. Christensen is best known for portraying the mysterious villain Mr. White in three James Bond movies from the Daniel Craig era — Casino Royale (2006), Quantum of Solace (2008), and Spectre (2015).

Who Are These 7 Actors Playing in Bloodaxe?

Character details have also been released, with Avots playing "Egil, a poet, farmer, murderer, sorcerer, ladies’ man, and a bit of a psychopath, who is seeking revenge on Erik Bloodaxe for the exile of his family to Iceland by Erik’s father,...

Prime Video’s Viking drama Bloodaxe has added five as series regulars: Karlis Arnolds Avots (January), Rod Hallett (Suspect: The Shooting of Jean Charles De Menezes), Alina Tomnikov (Donna), Sisse Marie (Rebel Moon), and Rune Temte (Eddie the Eagle). Additionally, Jesper Christensen (Spectre) has boarded as recurring.

Avots plays Egil, a poet, farmer, murderer, sorcerer, ladies’ man, and a bit of a psychopath, who is seeking revenge on Erik Bloodaxe (Molyneux) for the exile of his family to Iceland by Erik’s father, King Harald Fairhair.

Hallett plays Athelstan, the shrewd and powerful King of Wessex, who is also a formidable warrior. Years ago, he formed a strategic alliance with King Fairhair concerning his young son Haakon, and has been grooming him for future leadership, and to ensure his influence extends beyond Wessex.

Tomnikov portrays the dual roles of Greta and The Seer. Greta is an esteemed shield maiden...

Ragnar and Rollo’s love-hate relationship is one of the fiercest rivalries in Vikings, but according to Clive Standen, it almost didn’t exist the way we know it. In a candid interview with Collider’s Therese Lacsonat the Italian Global Series Festival, Standen pulled back the curtain on how his character Rollo was originally conceived — not as Ragnar’s brother, but as his much older cousin — and how the showrunner Michael Hirst made a last-minute change that reshaped the series forever.

“I did nearly nine auditions to play Ragnar and Travis came in right at the end. I think they offered it to Mads Mikkelsen at one point. Rollo was written to be like a 50-year-old cousin of Ragnar Lothbrok, because they weren't brothers in real life. And I think Donal Logue was offered that at one point, and then he came back as King Horik.”

Rollo was never...

If you thought Rollo was gone for good in Vikings, think again. According to Clive Standen, the door is still wide open for a return — and he’s got a killer idea for how to make it happen. In a recent conversation with Collider's Therese Lacsonat the Italian Global Series Festival, Standen not only reminded us that “Rollo never died on screen!” but pitched an entire spin-off series based on the historical legacy of his character. Standen, ever the champion of untapped Vikings lore, has been actively imagining where the story could go next — and he wants to go way back, to the seeds of what would eventually become the Norman dynasty.

“I’ve been championing, when we talk about spin-off shows and things like that. I just think he’d be the nice way into... The series I’d like to see Michael [Hirst] write, or anyone who can write about Vikings,...

From Amazon and MGM comes Bloodaxe, an all-new Viking series from Vikings creator Michael Hirst and his son Heratio Hirst. The series, set decades after the original Vikings show and decades before its spinoff Vikings: Valhalla, follows Eric Bloodaxe, one of the most famous Vikings that ever lived.

While no casting had been officially announced, Deadline has revealed that Australian actor Xavier Molyneux has landed the leading role. Molyneux is a largely unknown actor probably best known for his recurring role in the soap Neighbours. His casting recalls that of Australian actor Travis Fimmel, who landed the lead role of Ragnar Lothbrok in the original Vikings series.

The Amazon/MGM series follows Bloodaxe and his wife Gunnhild, Mother of Kings, as they fight for the throne of Norway, a throne sought after by several different factions. The conflict draws attention across Scandinavia and England. Prepare for a series rife with blood,...

Bloodaxe, the new Viking drama series in the works at Prime Video, has found a new cast member. The latest casting follows reports that the series would be starring Jessica Madsen and Xavier Molyneux.

Per Deadline, Australian actor Levi Miller (Kraven the Hunter) has joined the cast of Bloodaxe. Miller will reportedly play Haakon the Good, the younger half-brother of Viking Erik Bloodaxe (Molyneux). Madsen is playing the Mother of Kings, Gunnhild, who's Bloodaxe's wife.

Miller recently appeared in the Sony movie Kraven the Hunter, playing the younger version of Aaron Taylor-Johnson's titular character. The actor's previous credits include playing Peter Pan in Pan and Calvin O'Keefe in A Wrinkle in Time. He also had a role in the TV show Supergirl.

Vikings creator Michael Hirst and his son, Horatio Hirst, are the creators and writers of Bloodaxe. They are also serving as executive producers alongside Morgan O'Sullivan of...

Following the conclusion of Vikings and its sequel, Vikings: Valhalla, creator Michael Hirst and his son, Horatio Hirst, have come up with a new series: Bloodaxe. Based on one of the most legendary Viking warriors in Norse history, Eric Bloodaxe, and his wife, the series is already in production with ongoing casting.

Recently, the latest actor to join the series is the newcomer Levi Miller, whom we saw last in Kraven the Hunter. A tale of power struggles, betrayal, and more, it seems like the perfect replacement for Vikings.

What is Prime Video’s Bloodaxe About? A still from Vikings | Credits: Amazon MGM Studios

It was in March that Amazon Prime Video had first ordered Bloodaxe from the father-son duo, Michael Hirst and Horatio Hirst. Created, written, and executive produced by them, this will mark Hirst’s debut as a writer following several acting stints.

Related: All 6 Seasons of ‘Vikings...

Exclusive: Australian actor Levi Miller (Kraven the Hunter) has joined the cast of Bloodaxe, Prime Video’s drama created, written, and exec produced by Vikings creator Michael Hirst and his son, Horatio Hirst, sources tell Deadline.

Reps for Amazon MGM Studios declined to comment. Miller will play Haakon the Good, the younger half-brother of Viking Erik Bloodaxe, played by Xavier Molyneux. We were first to tell you about his casting and that of female lead Jessica Madsen, who plays Bloodaxe’s wife Gunnhild, aka the Mother of Kings.

Bloodaxe follows Erik Bloodaxe, one of history’s most famous Norse raiders, and his formidable wife, Gunnhild as they fight for the throne of Norway. In the process, 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,...

It looks like we'll be seeing a Bridgerton star trade the ballrooms of the ton for the blood-soaked battlefields of the Viking age, as Jessica Madsen joins Prime Video’s upcoming historical drama series Bloodaxe.

Madsen is best known for starring as Cressida Cowper in Netflix’s hit period drama Bridgerton, where she plays one of the ton’s most notorious gossipmongers and social climbers. At the end of season 3, we see her character banished to Wales to live with her aunt after causing much drama for Eloise and Penelope. While we don't know if she'll be returning for the fourth season, we now know that she'll be taking on a dramatically different role in Bloodaxe.

According to Variety, Madsen has been cast as Gunnhild, also known as the Mother of Kings. She is described as the wife of the Viking warrior Erik Bloodaxe, who will be portrayed by Xavier Molyneux...

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 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?...

British actor Jessica Madsen, known for her role as the snarky debutante Cressida Cowper in Netflix’s Bridgerton, has secured a leading role in a new historical drama series from Prime Video. Per Deadline, Madsen will star opposite Xavier Molyneaux (Neighbours) in Bloodaxe, a new drama series from Vikings creator Michael Hirst and his son Horatio Hirst.

Madsen will portray a character named Gunnhild, who is the wife of Molyneaux’s Erik Bloodaxe. Gunnhild is also known as the Mother of Kings. Bloodaxe will focus on the rise of Erik Bloodaxe, a famous 10th-century Norse raider, and his mighty wife. Madsen has also starred in Rambo: Last Blood (2019) alongside Sylvester Stallone and Leatherface (2017).

Bloodaxe Was Greenlit in March

The series was officially ordered by Prime Video back in March and will chronicle “the rise of one of history’s most famous Viking warriors, Erik Bloodaxe (Molyneux), and his formidable wife,...

The Viking Age lasted for approximately 300 years, and with it came a period of violence, bloodshed, glory, fame, and conquest. History Channel and Prime Video's hit series, Vikings, brought us close to the action as the legend of Ragnar Lothbrok (Travis Fimmel) and his son spread abroad. However, the flagship series eventually rowed off our screens and into Odin's hall in Valhalla, axe in hand. We are poised to take on a new journey with Vikings creator Michael Hirst penning and executive producing a new series, Bloodaxe, for Prime Video, alongside his son, Horatio Hirst. Now, the new Norse series has offered a bloody good update.

According to Deadline, Prime Video has cast Xavier Molyneux as the title character, Erik Bloodaxe – one of history's most famous Viking warriors. The upcoming series will follow the rise to power of two famous historical figures. One is the aforementioned Erik Bloodaxe and the other is Gunnhild.

Jessica Madsen has been cast in Prime Video’s Viking drama series “Bloodaxe” as Gunnhild, wife of the Viking raider Erik Bloodaxe.

The character of Gunnhild is also referred to as the Mother of Kings. As previously reported, Eric Bloodaxe will be played by Xavier Molyneux.

Madsen is known for playing Cressida Cowper in Netflix’s “Bridgerton.” As an antagonist in the “Bridgerton” world, Madsen’s character often spreads gossip regarding other debutantes. The actor has also appeared in the films “Leatherface” as Clarice, “Rambo: Last Blood” as Becky and “Dark Light” as Annie Knox.

The historical drama produced by MGM Television follows the couple’s ascent. “As they fight for the throne of Norway, 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,...

After experiencing the glamour of regency romance, Bridgerton's resident mean girl Cressida Cowper is about to trade in her ball gown for a battleaxe in Prime Video's new historical epic. Jessica Madsen has signed on to co-lead the Viking-centric Bloodaxe as the formidable "Mother of Kings," Gunnhild, one of the fabled figures of the Icelandic Sagas and the wife of one of history's most famous Norse raiders, Erik Bloodaxe. She joins the previously cast Xavier Molyneaux in the series, which is set to begin production later this summer in Iceland and Ireland. Michael Hirst, who created the acclaimed Vikings, is creating, writing, showrunning, and executive producing the series with Horatio Hirst.

Based on the true story of the Norse power couple, Bloodaxe chronicles the rise to power of Erik Bloodaxe, the eventual king of Norway, and Gunnhild, the queen who would give birth to multiple future rulers of the country in the years afterward.

Exclusive: British actress Jessica Madsen (Bridgerton) has landed the female lead opposite Xavier Molyneux in Bloodaxe, Prime Video’s historical drama series created, written, and exec produced by Vikings creator Michael Hirst and his son, Horatio Hirst.

Madsen will play Gunnhild, the wife of Erik Bloodaxe (Molyneux), also known as the Mother of Kings. We were first to report on Molyneux’s casting yesterday.

The show chronicles the rise of one of history’s most famous Norse raiders, Erik Bloodaxe, and his formidable wife, Gunnhild. As they fight for the throne of Norway, 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 Norse Saga.

Officially ordered in March, the show...

The Vikings franchise may be over, but there is plenty of Norse action coming your way sooner rather than later. Fans of the historical drama series will be treated to a new offering from Prime Video that will give them the Vikings fix they need. Based on one of the most legendary Vikings in history, Bloodaxe has found its titular lead.

Deadline reports that Prime Video has cast Xavier Molyneux in Bloodaxe, which hails from the creator of Vikings, Michael Hirst, alongside his son, Horatio Hirst. He will be playing the title character, Erik Bloodaxe, one of history's "most famous Viking warriors." Bloodaxe will not be connected to Hirst's 2013 series, but expect it to be another epic entry in the historical drama genre. While the rest of the cast remains unknown, the series will be heading into production in Ireland this July. The official plot description for Bloodaxe:

"Bloodaxe...

“Bloodaxe,” Amazon Prime Video’s upcoming series about Viking warrior Erik Bloodaxe, has found its lead actor in Xavier Molyneux.

“Bloodaxe” is created by Michael Hirst and his son, Horatio Hirst. The show was originally announced back in March.

Michael is the creator of “Vikings,” which ran on the History Channel for six seasons from 2013 to 2020, with the second part of Season 6 debuting on Amazon. Michael later executive produced the sequel series “Vikings: Valhalla,” which ran on Netflix for three seasons from 2022 to 2024. Horatio appeared in “Vikings: Valhalla” in the role of Bishop Grimketel for four episodes. He also previously starred in “Billy the Kid” on MGM+ as Charlie Bowdre. “Bloodaxe” marks his debut as a writer.

Molyneux is best known for his role in the Australian soap opera “Neighbors,” in which he has played Byron Stone for hundreds of episodes since 2023. He also starred in the 2024 Netflix film “Take My Hand.

Australian soap opera star Xavier Molyneux is ready to enter the spotlight for Amazon MGM Studios‘ upcoming historical drama series Bloodaxe. The project hails from Vikings creator Michael Hirst and his son, Horatio Hirst, with Molyneux sharpening his skills for the show’s lead role.

According to Deadline‘s exclusive report, Bloodaxe “chronicles the rise of one of history’s most famous Viking warriors, Erik Bloodaxe (Molyneux), and his formidable wife, Gunnhild, Mother of Kings. As they fight for the throne of Norway, 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.”

Despite sharing a similar space with the History series Vikings and the Netflix follow-up Vikings: Valhalla,...

Exclusive: Relative newcomer Xavier Molyneux has landed the title role in Bloodaxe, Prime Video’s new historical drama series from Vikings creator Michael Hirst and his son, Horatio Hirst, sources tell Deadline.

Reps for Amazon MGM Studios couldn’t be reached for comment.

Officially ordered in March, Bloodaxe chronicles the rise of one of history’s most famous Viking warriors, Erik Bloodaxe (Molyneux), and his formidable wife, Gunnhild, Mother of Kings. As they fight for the throne of Norway, 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 new Viking saga.

Bloodaxe is created, written and exec produced by Michael and Horatio Hirst and produced by MGM Television. Other exec producers include Steve Stark of Toluca Pictures label who,...

David W. Zucker and Rola Bauer embraced the chaos at a Monte-Carlo TV Festival session, Monday. The duo did a keynote sit-down with Deadline entitled: ‘Embracing the Chaos: TV Thru The Multiverse’. Zucker is Chief Creative Officer, Scott Free, and Rola Bauer, a well-known face in international TV, is now an exec producing Amazon MGM Studios projects.

Inevitably in a session about industry tumult, AI came up. “I think most people in Hollywood have their heads stuck in the sand right now,” Zucker said. “There is so much fear.”

He added: “I talked to one writer who was certain that he had gotten AI notes from an executive. And I talked to one other exec, and one other agent who said it’s hard to ingest new scripts now because [they] don’t know where they came from.”

Zucker and Bauer worked together on Pillars Of The Earth and are now...

The 64th edition of the Monte-Carlo Television Festival, the world’s oldest TV festival, opened Friday. Variety spoke to Laurent Puons, the festival’s general manager, about what he has planned.

The festival, which Puons says exists to “celebrate excellence in global television,” is a triple threat: first, it’s a public festival and encourages a high level of engagement with the fans; second, it is a gathering point for European press, where TV companies can promote their shows; and third, it provides an opportunity for members of the industry to meet each other and attend topical panels as part of the Business Content program.

The festival has a trump card up its sleeve: its patron is Prince Albert II of Monaco, who attends both the opening and closing ceremonies. Among the festival guests he will welcome at the Grimaldi Forum this year are Robin Wright, Judith Light, Rachel Griffiths,...

Rola Bauer will executive produce Amazon’s “Totally Spies!” and “Pompeii: A Day of Fire” after recently exiting her previous executive role at the company.

Bauer has been added as non-writing executive producer for both live-action series in the wake of her departure as Amazon’s head of Pan-English scripted originals. She left the role in late October to “return to her entrepreneurial roots” as an independent producer.

“Totally Spies!” and “Pompeii: A Day of Fire” are currently in development at Amazon MGM Studios, with both series drawing from existing IP.

The live-action series of “Totally Spies!” draws from the animated series, which is in production on its eighth season. The YA series of the same name will follow stylish best friends Clover, Alex and Sam as they navigate saving the world as international spies, while trying to survive the ups and downs of first year college life, per the official logline.

Rola Bauer is staying in the Amazon family.

Bauer, who was Head of Pan-English scripted originals at the company before departing at the end of last year, has boarded two high-profile scripted projects that are in development at Prime Video.

The Tandem Productions co-founder, who joined MGM as President, International Television Productions in 2020 before it was acquired by the tech giant, will serve as an exec producer on its live-action remake of kids series Totally Spies! and Pompeii: A Day of Fire, which comes from Michael Hirst and Ridley Scott.

It’s not unusual for a former buyer to return to projects that they originally shepherded, as an independent producer.

Totally Spies! is based on the long-running French animated kids series that debuted in 2002. It is currently in production on its eighth season and has produced close to 200 episodes. The live-action adaptation of the series, which comes from Banijay Kids & Family,...

You can’t keep Michael Hirst away from the world of Vikings. Prime Video has given a series order to Bloodaxe, a historical drama created, written, and executive produced by Michael and Horatio Hirst.

Hirst created and wrote all 89 episodes of the Vikings series for the History Channel and executive-produced Vikings: Valhalla, the sequel series that aired for three seasons on Netflix. Although Bloodaxe will also deal with real-life Norse figures, the new series won’t be related to Hirst’s previous Viking dramas.

Bloodaxe chronicles “the rise of one of history’s most famous Viking warriors, Erik Bloodaxe, and his formidable wife, Gunnhild, Mother of Kings. As they fight for the throne of Norway, 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,...

Netflix is in love with With Love, Meghan, renewing the lifestyle series starring Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, for Season 2.

Per The Hollywood Reporter, production on the new episodes has already been completed, and they are expected to drop this fall.

More from TVLineBeauty in Black Star Breaks Down Biggest Part 2 Twists, From Kimmie's First Kill to Her Shocking Finale FateWhat to Watch This Week: 25+ Premieres, Finales and MoreNobody Wants This Season 2: Joanne and Noah Cuddle Up in First Photo

With Love, Meghan, which premiered on March 4, blends “practical how-to’s and candid conversation with friends, new and old,” reads the official description.

Prime Video is creating a brand new historical drama series. The project will be developed, written and executive produced by Vikings'creator Michael Hirst.

"Bloodaxe will follow the rise of legendary Viking warrior Erik Bloodaxe and his formidable wife, Gunnhild, Mother of Kings.As they fight for the throne of Norway, the land is torn apart by fierce rivals, shifting loyalties, and bloody betrayals," the official synopsis per Deadline reads. "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."

While Bloodaxe shares some similarities with Vikings and its Netflix sequel, Vikings: Valhalla, it is not connected to either show. Instead, the new Norse saga is set decades after the events of Vikings and decades before Valhalla.Hirst' son Horatio will also serve...

It's been five long years since Vikingspremiered its final season, but fans of the award-winning Norse drama will finally have their next Viking obsession. Sure, the sequel seriesVikings: Valhalla from Netflix did enough to quench the thirst of the loyal fanbase, but the short-lived drama was canceled by the streamer last year. Now, Prime Video will set sail on their own Norse adventure, this time outside the Vikings franchise.

Prime Video has granted a series order for Bloodaxe, a new Norse drama from the creative mind behind Vikings, Michael Hirst, alongside Horatio Hirst. Despite the behind-the-scenes connections to Vikings, it will be a standalone series set in a new universe. But like the aforementioned show, it will be based on real-life historical figures. A plot description, as provided by Amazon MGM Studios:

"Bloodaxe is an epic historical drama that chronicles the rise of one of history’s most famous Viking warriors,...

Vikings creator Michael Hirst is heading back to Scandinavia for his next historical drama.

Amazon’s Prime Video has greenlit Bloodaxe, a series that will track the rise of Viking warrior Erik Bloodaxe and his wife, Gunnhild, known as the Mother of Kings. Hirst and his son, Horatio Hirst, will write and executive produce.

“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,” said Michael Hirst. “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.”

Bloodaxe is Hirst’s third series set in the Viking world — and will run on a third outlet. Vikings initially aired on History Channel,...

If there’s been an axe-sized hole in your heart since the hit series, Vikings, rowed off the air and into Valhalla back in 2020, fear not, as Prime Video is here to save the day. Titled Bloodaxe, the episodic production will follow the very real rise to power of historical figures, Erik Bloodaxe and Gunnhild. In what will come as even better news for Vikings fans, the latest all-things Scandinavian series will hail from none other but the man behind the beloved period drama, as Vikings creator, Michael Hirst, will team with Horatio Hirst for the project. The duo will also pen and executive produce the latest must-watch to come from one of history’s most epic time periods in what promises to be an action-packed title.

Prime Video is headed to the world of the Vikings with a series order to Bloodaxe, a historical drama created, written and executive produced by Vikings creator Michael and Horatio Hirst and produced by MGM Television.

It chronicles the rise of one of history’s most famous Viking warriors, Erik Bloodaxe, and his formidable wife, Gunnhild, Mother of Kings. As they fight for the throne of Norway, 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.

While it shares creative lineage with the History series Vikings, created/executive produced by Michael Hirst, and its Netflix sequel Vikings: Valhalla — all three based on real historical characters and produced by...

Michael Hirst is getting back into the world of Vikings. Variety has learned that Michael and Horatio Hirst have set up the epic historical drama “Bloodaxe” at Amazon Prime Video.

The series is said to tell the true story of famous Viking warrior Erik Bloodaxe and his wife, Gunnhild, Mother of Kings.

This will be the latest series set in this world for the Hirsts. Michael previously created the hit History Channel series “Vikings” and served as an executive producer on the Netflix followup “Vikings: Valhalla.” Horatio, meanwhile, appeared in multiple episodes of “Valhalla.” “Bloodaxe” will mark Horatio’s series writing debut.

“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,” said Michael Hirst. “Horatio and I...

TV and censorship have gone hand-in-hand for decades. However, network TV's stranglehold on the airwaves would go the way of the dodo when HBO debuted in 1972. This pay channel was the first of its kind, but most importantly, it wasn't constrained by FCC regulations dictating what it could and couldn't broadcast. This would eventually lead to more mature comedies and dramas on various platforms, ones that are typically rated mature but could be considered R-rated.

Many of the greatest TV shows of all time are R-rated, such as The Sopranos and Breaking Bad. They've used the freedom of mature content to tell more realistic stories, relating to audiences in new ways. Several of these shows, such as The Wire, have changed the landscape of television, even sparking the Golden Age of Television that led to so many amazing shows. Additionally, the success of R-rated series has led to their expansion,...

The show Vikings has solidified an image of huge Norsemen warriors, making fans believe that they were an accurate depiction of history. However, Joe Rogan, who loved the Vikings, found out the hard way that these warriors portrayed in the History Channel show might not be accurately shown. Rogan and guest Shane Gillis went through some archaeological sites to find out the differences.

A still from the Travis Fimmel show Vikings | Credits: History Channel

Michael Hirst’s show took inspiration from the sagas of Ragnar Lodbrok, who is one of the most popular Viking heroes. The show follows Ragnar’s journey from a farmer in Kattegat to the warrior who raided England and became the Scandinavian king.

What did Joe Rogan and Shane Gillis uncover about Netflix’s Vikings? Joe Rogan in The Joe Rogan Experience | Credits: @PowerfulJRE/YouTube

Vikings and other modern movies and TV shows may have used...

In 2020, Michael Hirst's gripping historical drama series "Vikings" came to an end, rounding out the era of Ragnar Lothbrok (Travis Fimmel) and his kin after six seasons (which was all the more impressive given that Hirst didn't think "Vikings" would make it past one). Few other shows have captured the realism and brutality of this era in history, with Northmen invading lands, quite like this one (although there are some good alternatives to "Vikings" out there). 

Of course, Ragnar himself didn't make it past season 4, with the show pulling a "Game of Thrones" (as much as it tried to avoid comparisons to that series) and killing off one of its most important characters well before the end of the story. "And how the little piglets would grunt if they knew how the old boar suffered," because from there, all that was left was for the father's sons to battle...

Quick Links Vikings Had Style, The Last Kingdom Had History The Timelines Of Vikings and The Last Kingdom Cross Vikings: Valhalla Almost Completes The TV-Viking Marathon Other Shows to Watch If You Love Vikings and The Last Kingdom

From 2013 to 2024, two massive runs of hit historical dramas took over television and had audiences captivated. Although many shows compete for the affection of similar audiences, they rarely zero in on the same era, location, and generations of characters in history. Vikings was an original show created by screenwriter and producer Michael Hirst. The show debuted in 2013 and was received with adulation and fascination as the show's characters, wardrobe, and mood rippled into popular culture fashion trends and revived interest in history. Yet, Vikings seemed unaware of a sleeping giant that would release, and with it, bring an audience of book lovers.

The Last Kingdom was the first in a 13-book series...

Though it started back in 2013 and raged on for six seasons till 2020, Vikings continues to be regarded as one of the greatest historical drama series of all time. Created, written, and tamed by Michael Hirst, it originally encompassed a story – which continued to span across decades – inspired by the legendary hero from Norse mythology, Ragnar Lodbrok.

A Viking, Ragnar is embodied perfectly by Travis Fimmel and is initially portrayed as a farmer from the Kattegat. But his ordinary storyline turns extraordinary when he rises to fame by carrying out victorious raids into the English territory before eventually transforming into a Scandinavian king with his family and fellow warriors’ support.

Vikings. | Credits: Netflix.

Going deeper into the storyline, later seasons of the historical fiction series originally aired on the History Channel continued to cover decades of generational conflicts and conquests by eventually focusing the plotlines on the fortunes of Ragnar’s...

A limited series adaptation of the book “A Day of Fire: A Novel of Pompeii” is in development at Amazon MGM Studios, Variety has learned exclusively.

The book was written by Kate Quinn, Stephanie Dray, Ben Kane, Eliza Knight, Sophie Perinot, and Vicky Alvear. Michael Hirst and Horatio Hirst are set as writers, executive producers, and showrunners. Ridley Scott, David W. Zucker, Clayton Krueger, and Sharon Hughff executive produce for Scott Free Productions. Amazon MGM Studios will produce.

The book takes place in the lead up to the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, which utterly destroyed Pompeii and killed many of its residents. It tells a series of overlapping stories of people living in Pompeii and what their lives were like before fire rained down from the sky.

Scott Free’s upcoming TV slate includes “Blade Runner 2099” at Amazon Prime Video and “Alien: Earth” at FX.

Michael Hirst is known...

We have good news and bad news for Billy the Kid fans.

First the good: Young Henry McCarty and his posse of outlaws will be returning for a third round of hold-ups and shootouts.

But the bad news is, this will be Billy’s last stand.

(Epix (screenshot))

Yes, it was announced today that Billy the Kid has been renewed for a third and final season at MGM+.

“MGM+ announced the renewal of Billy the Kid, starring Tom Blyth (The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes) for an eight-episode third, and final, season,” reads a press release issued moments ago.

“The epic romantic adventure inspired by the life of America’s most infamous outlaw continues in Season Three.”

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Today, MGM+ announced the renewal of Billy the Kid, starring Tom Blyth (The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes), for an eight-episode third and final season. The epic romantic adventure inspired by the life of America’s most infamous outlaw continues in season three.

The Lincoln County War may be officially over, but both Billy the Kid and Sheriff Pat Garrett have important issues to resolve — there is a reckoning to come. Billy is still at large, and Garrett is out to capture him, dead or alive.

With a bounty on his head, Billy has the opportunity to quit New Mexico altogether and pursue a future with Dulcinea, the love of his life. But he has unfinished business with Garrett, who has betrayed him and decides to stay.

Meanwhile, Jesse Evans, Billy’s longtime friend, rival, and enemy, also remains in Lincoln, searching for a newfound purpose and perhaps atonement for his sins.

“Billy the Kid” will be returning to MGM+ for a third and final season in 2025. The renewal comes as Season 2 was among the platform’s top three most viewed original series in the history of the network.

Starring Tom Blyth (“The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes”), the Western drama centers around the titular 19th century outlaw. This upcoming eight-episode season will pick up in the aftermath of the Lincoln County War. Though the war is over, Billy and Sheriff Pat Garrett (Alex Roe) still have their own personal battle to fight as Garrett is determined to capture Billy, dead or alive. But instead of fleeing New Mexico with the love of his life Dulcinea (Nuria Vega), Billy’s unfinished business with Garrett convinces him to stay.

At the same time, Billy’s longtime frenemy Jesse Evans (Daniel Webber) decides to stay in Lincoln for more wholesome reasons.

Tom Blyth in ‘Billy the Kid’ (Credit: David Brown/MGM+)

MGM+ has officially renewed the Western drama Billy the Kid for a third – and – final season. The series will conclude with eight episodes arriving in 2025.

“In season two, Michael Hirst, Donald De Line, along with Tom Blyth and the rest of our talented cast, captivated audiences with the dramatic events leading to the infamous Lincoln County War, during which Billy is struggling to hang on to both his soul and the love of his life,” stated Michael Wright, head of MGM+. “In season three, we are excited to bring the naturally cinematic story of one of American history’s most fascinating, and often misunderstood, characters to its conclusion, as only MGM+ can.”

The series, created by Michael Hirst (Vikings), ranks in the top three of all original shows on the network.

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to write...

MGM+ has renewed “Billy the Kid” for Season 3, which will also be the show’s last season.

The final season of the series, which stars Tom Blyth as the legendary Old West outlaw, will consist of eight episodes. The news comes just over two months after the conclusion of Season 2.

The official description for Season 3 states:

“The Lincoln County War may be officially over, but both Billy the Kid and Sheriff Pat Garrett (Alex Roe) have important issues to resolve — there is a reckoning to come. Billy is still at large, and Garrett is out to capture him, dead or alive. And with a bounty on his head, Billy has the opportunity to quit New Mexico altogether and pursue a future with Dulcinea (Nuria Vega), the love of his life. But he has unfinished business with Garrett, who has betrayed him, and decides to stay. Meanwhile Jesse Evans (Daniel Webber), Billy’s longtime friend,...

It’s Billy the Kid’s last stand: The Western period drama has been renewed for a third and final season at MGM+, TVLine has learned.

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to write the third and final season of Billy the Kid and bring this compelling saga to a close,” series creator Michael Hirst said in a statement. “Billy was famous for many things, not least his ability to escape from seemingly impossible situations. But now, as the Most Wanted Man in America, the odds are truly stacked against him.”

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Major Vikings characters like Ragnar Lothbrok, Bjrn, and Ivar are referenced in Valhalla to connect both series. Significant locations like Kattegat and Uppsala's temple link Vikings and Valhalla, enhancing world-building and continuity. The enigmatic Seer and the mysterious connection to Erik the Red bridge the gap between the two series in Valhalla, enriching the viewing experience.

Vikings: Valhalla is set many, many years after the events of Vikings and doesnt feature any of the main characters of the original series, but there are tons of ways Vikings and Valhalla are connected and heres every one of them. Created by Michael Hirst and focusing on the Ragnar Lothbrok family tree, Vikings became one of the most popular historical dramas in recent years, airing from 2013 to 2020 for a total of six seasons. However, six seasons werent enough to tell the most exciting stories from the Viking Age and explore its most notable characters,...