Prime Video has renewed its upcoming historical drama Bloodaxe for a second season ahead of its highly anticipated debut, signaling strong confidence in the project’s global potential.
The announcement, made on June 16, 2026, confirms that production on Season 2 will begin this August in Dublin, Ireland—well before audiences get their first look at Season 1.
A Rare Pre-Premiere Renewal
In today’s competitive streaming environment, early renewals are typically reserved for projects with significant backing and long-term plans. Bloodaxe appears to fall squarely into that category, backed by Amazon MGM Studios and led by experienced creators.
The series is developed by Michael Hirst and Horatio Hirst, with the former widely recognized for his work on historical dramas. Their involvement has likely played a major role in Prime Video’s decision to commit early.
Speaking about the renewal, Michael Hirst shared:
“We are thrilled that we can soon offer a worldwide audience the chance to re-enter the beautiful Norse world… We are incredibly proud of the storytelling and the way the series brings Viking beliefs and history to life.”
He also noted that the show blends historical authenticity with elements of “magic realism,” aiming to immerse viewers in the mindset of the Viking age.
Bloodaxe tells the story of Erik Bloodaxe, a legendary Norse ruler known for his brutal rise to power. The narrative centers not only on Erik’s ambition but also on his partnership with Gunnhild, often referred to as the “Mother of Kings.”
Set in a fractured Norway, the series explores political rivalries, shifting alliances, and the violent struggle for control of the throne. As tensions escalate, external forces—including rival Scandinavian leaders and an influential English ruler—enter the conflict, raising the stakes further.
The show aims to deliver a layered narrative that combines personal drama with large-scale historical events.
Prime Video’s Push for Global Event Series
The early renewal also reflects Prime Video’s broader content strategy. According to Peter Friedlander, Head of Global Television at Amazon MGM Studios:
“With Bloodaxe, they have created a sweeping saga that combines rich historical detail, compelling characters, and cinematic scale… we are thrilled to renew it for a second season.”
This approach aligns with the platform’s investment in globally appealing series designed to compete in the premium streaming space. Large-scale historical dramas have proven successful in attracting international audiences, and Bloodaxe is positioned to follow that trend.
The series features a diverse cast including Xavier Molyneux as Erik Bloodaxe and Jessica Madsen as Gunnhild. Supporting roles include Karlis Arnolds Avots, Levi Miller, and Rune Temte, among others.
Produced by MGM Television, the show is set to premiere exclusively on Prime Video in over 240 countries and territories. While an exact release date for Season 1 has yet to be confirmed, the early greenlight for Season 2 suggests a long-term rollout plan.
Filming in Ireland—a location known for its cinematic landscapes—will continue to play a key role in bringing the Viking world to life.
