Prime Video has officially pulled back the curtain on "Bloodaxe," its highly anticipated new original series hailing from "Vikings" creator Michael Hirst and Horatio Hirst. Along with the first batch of promotional images showcasing the gritty historical drama, the streaming platform confirmed that the ambitious Norse saga has already been handed an early Season 2 renewal while principal photography continues in Ireland.
Set to premiere on Prime Video in 2027, the inaugural season of "Bloodaxe" will consist of eight episodes. The sweeping historical drama follows the dramatic, violent rise of Erik Bloodaxe—widely recognized as one of the most famous and feared Norse raiders in history—alongside his formidable wife, Gunnhild, known historically as the Mother of Kings.
As portrayed in the first-look images and series details, Xavier Molyneux, known for his work on "Neighbors," steps into the heavy leather and furs of Erik Bloodaxe. Meanwhile, "Bridgerton" star Jessica Madsen takes on the commanding role of Queen Gunnhild. The narrative plunges viewers directly into the turbulent politics of the era as the ambitious power couple fights relentlessly for control of the Norse throne. Their path to supremacy is fraught with external threats, as rival factions, internal betrayals, and competing monarchs tear the land apart, creating a volatile landscape of war, chaos, and ambition.
The newly released first-look photos give fans a moody, atmospheric glimpse into the world crafted by the Hirsts. One striking image features Jessica Madsen’s Gunnhild radiating intense authority, while others highlight Xavier Molyneux’s gritty portrayal of the titular warrior. Another promotional still pairs Molyneux with Alina Tomnikov, who plays Greta, offering a preview of the complex interpersonal dynamics and alliances that will drive the narrative forward when the show eventually lands on screens.
Beyond its leads, "Bloodaxe" boasts an expansive, international ensemble cast for its first season. The call sheet features Karlis Arnolds Avots, recognized for "Kill Jackie," and Levi Miller, who recently appeared in "Kraven the Hunter." They are joined by Rod Hallett ("Suspect: The Shooting of Jean Charles De Menezes"), Alina Tomnikov ("Donna"), Sisse Marie ("Rebel Moon"), Rune Temte ("Eddie the Eagle"), and veteran actor Jesper Christensen, whose impressive screen credits include the James Bond film "Spectre."
Behind the camera, the creative DNA of the series ensures a faithful continuation of the historical epic tradition established by Michael Hirst with "Vikings." Michael and Horatio Hirst serve as the primary showrunners, writers, and executive producers for the project. The heavy-hitting production team also includes Morgan O’Sullivan executive producing under his O’Sullivan Productions label, Steve Stark under Toluca Pictures, alongside Arturo Interian, John Weber, and Sheila Hockin.
While Prime Video has yet to pin down an exact, day-and-date release schedule for 2027, the early confidence shown by the studio—demonstrated by commissioning a second season before the first has even aired—signals massive expectations for the franchise. Production on the sophomore season is already well underway in Ireland, mirroring the robust production pipeline that successfully sustained past historical epics.
First Looks/Trailers
In broader television roundup news, MGM+ has made waves of its own by dropping the official trailer for the second season of its hit thriller-horror series, "The Institute."
Based on the best-selling horror novel by master of suspense Stephen King, "The Institute" is set to return to screens for its highly anticipated second season on November 8. The narrative picks up the threads left hanging at the end of the first season, following the perilous escape of psychic prodigy Luke Ellis, played by Joe Freeman, alongside a handful of other extraordinary children.
In Season 2, the young survivors find themselves driven by a singular, dangerous mission: finding a way to dismantle the secretive, exploitative organization once and for all. To achieve this, they must contemplate the ultimate gamble—walking willingly back inside the very facility they fought so hard to flee. Meanwhile, the power dynamics surrounding the clandestine facility are shifting. Tech billionaire Nolan Reeves, portrayed by Alfie Allen, has been brought on board to help rebuild the crippled organization. At the same time, the former director, Sigsby—played by Mary Louise Parker—finds herself living the life of a desperate fugitive, forcing her to orchestrate her own ruthless methods to find a way back inside.
The returning cast of "The Institute" also features Ben Barnes as Tim Jamieson, Simone Miller as Kalisha, Fionn Laird as Nicky, Arlen So as George, Robert Joy as Dr. Hendricks, and Hannah Galway as Wendy.
Creative control remains firmly in experienced hands, with Jack Bender directing the episodes based on screenplays penned by Benjamin Cavell. The star-studded list of executive producers includes Stephen King himself, alongside Jack Bender, Benjamin Cavell, Gary Barber, Sam Sheridan, Ed Redlich, and Michael Mahoney.
Fans eager to dive back into King’s chilling universe will not have to wait much longer. "The Institute" Season 2 is scheduled to premiere on November 8 on MGM+, with subsequent new episodes rolling out weekly on Sunday nights through December 20.
