Bridgerton actress to star in 'epic' new Prime Video drama after landing lead role

Bridgerton's Jessica Madsen has landed the role of the female lead in the much-anticipated historical drama series on Prime Video, titled 'Bloodaxe'. Created by the esteemed Michael Hirst of Vikings fame and his offspring, Horatio Hirst, the tale unfolds the saga of the legendary Norse warrior Erik Bloodaxe and his formidable consort, Gunnhild.

Labelled as a grand "epic historical drama," the series charts the rise to power of Erik Bloodaxe alongside his commanding spouse, Gunnhild, referenced as Mother of Kings. The series is teased with a plot rich in power struggles: "As they battle for the Norwegian throne, the country is ravaged by intense rivalries, shifting allegiances, and bloody treacheries."

The horizon threatens war, and the narrative promises intrigue as it weaves through political machinations that attract the fierce rulers of other Scandinavian realms, and even an influential English monarch, setting the scene for a thunderous new chapter in Viking lore that is compelling, cataclysmic, and enchantingly magical.

Xavier Molyneux, known to many as Byron Stone from the Australian soap Neighbours, embarks on the journey as Erik Bloodaxe, reports Surrey Live.

Madsen, marking her name as Cressida Cowper in the Bridgerton series, will step into the shoes of Erik's partner, Gunnhild.

Beyond these illustrious roles, the 33 year old actress has graced our screens in the grisly 2017 horror film Leatherface, the period piece Mr Selfridge on ITV, and the 2017 drama Tina and Bobby.

Earlier this year, upon revealing the series, Vernon Sanders from Amazon MGM Studios called it "a fascinating tale".

The television chief expressed great enthusiasm about the collaboration: "We are thrilled to partner with Michael and Horatio Hirst, who have an impressive track record bringing historical dramas to life with stunning authenticity and gripping storytelling," his statement read.

He went on to say: "This story is a fascinating tale of Erik Bloodaxe and we can't wait to unveil this new chapter to transport our global customers back to a fascinating era of history."

On the flip side, Michael shared his own excitement about the project: "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."

He promised an eye-opening experience: "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."

Though eagerly anticipated, the release date for the new series produced by MGM Television remains under wraps.