LONDON, Aug. 1, 2024 — Get ready for a sweeping historical drama. The trailer and a first-look picture have just dropped for “King & Conqueror,” a new eight-part epic series set to premiere on BBC iPlayer and BBC One this August.
Epic Saga of Dynastic Struggle Hits the BBC
The series plunges viewers into the heart of a monumental clash that shaped continents. “King & Conqueror” chronicles the decades-long power struggle between two formidable families across two nations, culminating in the pivotal 1066 Battle of Hastings.
At its core, the story follows Harold, Earl of Wessex, portrayed by James Norton, and William, Duke of Normandy, brought to life by Nikolaj Coster-Waldau. Their intertwined destinies, initially as allies with no claim on the English throne, are driven by circumstance and personal ambition into a bitter war for the crown.
A Stellar Cast Brings History to Life
The 60-second trailer teases the intense drama, showcasing Harold and William battling for power. Their wives, Edith Swan-neck (Emily Beecham) and Matilda (Clémence Poésy), are also featured prominently. The ensemble cast includes notable actors like Eddie Marsan as King Edward, Juliet Stevenson as Lady Emma, and Geoff Bell as Godwin.
Further cast members adding depth to the historical narrative are Jean-Marc Barr as King Henry, Elliott Cowan as Sweyn, and Bjarne Henriksen as Earl Siward. Oliver Masucci plays Baldwin, while Indy Lewis appears as Margaret. Jason Forbes is Thane Thomas, Ingvar Sigurdsson is Fitzosbern, and Ines Asserson takes on the role of Judith. Hardrada is played by Sveinn Ólafur Gunnarsson, with Léo Legrand as Odo. Supporting players also include Elander Moore as Morcar, Clare Holman as Gytha, Luther Ford as Tostig, and Bo Bragason as Queen Gunhild.
Behind the Scenes of a Major Production
Produced by a consortium of studios including The Development Partnership, Rabbit Track Pictures, Shepherd Content, RVK Studios, and CBS Studios, in association with the BBC, “King & Conqueror” is a significant undertaking. Michael Robert Johnson serves as creator and writer, with Baltasar Kormákur directing the opening episode and overseeing the series’ creative vision as an executive producer.
The extensive executive production team includes James Norton and Kitty Kaletsky for Rabbit Track Pictures, Kormákur and Magnus Sigurdsson for RVK Studios, Robert Taylor for The Development Partnership, Dave Clarke and Richard Halliwell for Shepherd Content, Lindsay Martin for CBS Studios, and Ed Clarke and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau. The series acquisition for the BBC was handled by Sue Deeks, Head of BBC Programme Acquisition.
The BBC holds the UK broadcasting rights, with Paramount Global Content Distribution handling international distribution. The 8×60’ series promises a deep dive into a pivotal moment in history.
What is the historical significance of the Battle of Hastings? The Battle of Hastings in 1066 marked the Norman conquest of England, fundamentally changing the course of English history, language, and culture.
- “King & Conqueror” is an eight-part historical epic premiering on BBC iPlayer and BBC One this August.
- The series stars James Norton as Harold, Earl of Wessex, and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau as William, Duke of Normandy.
- It dramatizes the events leading up to the 1066 Battle of Hastings and the struggle for the English throne.
- The show features a large ensemble cast, including Emily Beecham, Clémence Poésy, and Eddie Marsan.
- Michael Robert Johnson created and wrote the series, with Baltasar Kormákur directing the premiere episode and serving as executive producer.
