Vikings, the hit TV series, brought the world of Norse warriors to life with its epic storytelling and unforgettable characters.
The show’s success relied heavily on its talented cast, who breathed life into the legendary figures of Viking history.
From fierce warriors to cunning rulers, these actors captivated audiences with their powerful performances.
The cast of Vikings played a crucial role in making the show a global phenomenon, attracting millions of viewers and earning critical acclaim.
The ensemble of actors and actresses portrayed complex characters that evolved throughout the series, keeping fans engaged for six thrilling seasons.
Their dedication to their roles helped create a vivid and immersive world that transported viewers back in time to the age of Viking exploration and conquest.
1. Travis Fimmel as Ragnar Lothbrok
Travis Fimmel brings the legendary Viking leader Ragnar Lothbrok to life in the hit TV series “Vikings”. Born in Australia, Fimmel landed his big break playing this iconic role.
Ragnar Lothbrok is a complex character. He starts as a humble farmer with big dreams. His curiosity and ambition drive him to explore new lands and seek fame and fortune.
Fimmel’s portrayal of Ragnar is captivating. He shows Ragnar’s growth from a simple man to a powerful king. His piercing blue eyes and intense gaze add depth to the character.
The actor appeared in 45 episodes of “Vikings”. He skillfully depicts Ragnar’s journey through raids, battles, and political struggles.
Fimmel’s Ragnar is both fierce and thoughtful. He can be a ruthless warrior one moment and a caring father the next. This mix of traits makes Ragnar a fan favorite.
Travis Fimmel’s performance as Ragnar Lothbrok is a highlight of “Vikings”. He brings this historical figure to life with depth and charisma.
2. Katheryn Winnick as Lagertha
Katheryn Winnick brought the fierce shield-maiden Lagertha to life in the hit TV series Vikings. Her portrayal of this strong female character won the hearts of fans worldwide.
Lagertha’s journey on the show was full of ups and downs. She started as Ragnar Lothbrok’s first wife and grew into a powerful leader in her own right.
Winnick’s performance was both tough and tender. She showed Lagertha’s strength in battle and her soft side as a mother and lover.
The actress put a lot of work into her role. She trained hard to make Lagertha’s fighting scenes look real and impressive.
Winnick played Lagertha for most of the show’s run. Her character’s story came to an end in a way that fits her warrior spirit.
Fans loved watching Lagertha grow and change over the seasons. Winnick’s acting helped make Lagertha one of the most popular characters on Vikings.
Her work on the show earned her praise from viewers and critics alike. Winnick’s Lagertha became a symbol of female power and leadership in a male-dominated world.
3. Clive Standen as Rollo
Clive Standen brings the complex character of Rollo to life in the hit TV series Vikings. Rollo is Ragnar’s brother and a fierce warrior in his own right.
Standen’s portrayal captures Rollo’s internal struggles and conflicting loyalties. He shows Rollo’s envy of Ragnar’s success while also depicting his desire for his brother’s approval.
The British actor brings an intense physical presence to the role. His background in Muay Thai boxing and fencing helped him perform Rollo’s epic battle scenes convincingly.
Rollo’s character arc is one of the most dramatic in the series. Standen skillfully portrays his transformation from a loyal brother to a powerful leader in his own right.
In the earlier seasons, Standen depicts Rollo as impulsive and wild. He gradually shows Rollo’s growth into a more calculating and ambitious figure.
Standen appeared in 89 episodes of Vikings from 2013 to 2020. His performance helped make Rollo a fan favorite throughout the series’ run.
4. Gustaf Skarsgård as Floki
Gustaf Skarsgård brought the eccentric shipbuilder Floki to life in the hit TV series Vikings. His portrayal was both captivating and memorable, earning him praise from fans and critics alike.
Floki is a religious zealot who believes in the Gods above all else. Skarsgård’s performance captured this devotion perfectly, showing Floki’s unwavering faith even in the face of great challenges.
The actor’s talent shines through in Floki’s complex character development. He skillfully portrays Floki’s journey from loyal friend to troubled soul, keeping viewers engaged throughout the series.
Skarsgård appeared in Vikings from 2013 to 2020, making him one of the show’s longest-running cast members. His commitment to the role helped create a fan-favorite character that stood out in the ensemble cast.
Beyond Vikings, Gustaf Skarsgård has made a name for himself in other popular productions. He has appeared in critically acclaimed projects like Oppenheimer and Westworld, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
5. Alexander Ludwig as Bjorn Ironside
Alexander Ludwig played Bjorn Ironside on the hit TV show Vikings. He took on the role in season 2, portraying the grown-up version of Ragnar and Lagertha’s son.
Ludwig brought strength and depth to the character of Bjorn. He showed Bjorn’s growth from a young warrior to a respected leader.
The actor faced the challenge of playing a real historical figure. He did a great job of bringing Bjorn Ironside to life on screen.
Ludwig’s performance earned praise from fans and critics alike. He captured Bjorn’s bravery, wisdom, and inner conflicts.
One of the most exciting parts of Ludwig’s role was the action scenes. He took part in many battles and raids throughout the series.
Ludwig’s time on Vikings lasted until the final season. He helped make Bjorn Ironside a fan favorite character over the years.
6. Jordan Patrick Smith as Ubbe
Jordan Patrick Smith plays Ubbe in the TV series Vikings. Ubbe is one of Ragnar Lothbrok’s sons and appears in 51 episodes from 2016 to 2020.
Smith is a Scottish-Australian actor born on June 18, 1989. He brings Ubbe to life with his compelling performance, showcasing the character’s growth and development throughout the series.
Ubbe is known for his leadership skills and desire to explore new lands. He searches for a legendary “Golden Land” across the ocean, facing many challenges along the way.
Smith’s portrayal of Ubbe captures the character’s curiosity and bravery. He effectively conveys Ubbe’s struggle between his Viking heritage and his interest in new cultures and beliefs.
The actor’s work on Vikings helped boost his career. After joining the show, Smith went on to appear in other popular series like Banished and Lovecraft Country.
7. Marco Ilsø as Hvitserk
Marco Ilsø brought the character of Hvitserk to life in the hit TV series Vikings. This Danish actor was born in 1994 and started his acting career at a young age.
Ilsø joined the cast of Vikings in 2016, playing one of Ragnar Lothbrok’s sons. He appeared in 49 episodes from 2016 to 2020, becoming a familiar face to fans of the show.
Before Vikings, Ilsø worked on several films. He had roles in “Rebounce” (2011), “You and Me Forever” (2012), and “Danny’s Doomsday” (2014).
The actor’s portrayal of Hvitserk was well-received by viewers. He brought depth to the character, showing Hvitserk’s struggles and growth throughout the series.
After Vikings, Ilsø continued his acting career. He took on a role in the film “The Islander”, showcasing his talent beyond the world of Norse warriors.
Ilsø’s performance as Hvitserk helped make Vikings a success. His work on the show has opened doors for more exciting roles in his future.
8. Alex Høgh Andersen as Ivar the Boneless
Alex Høgh Andersen plays Ivar the Boneless in the TV show Vikings. He joined the cast in season 4 and quickly became a fan favorite.
Andersen was born on May 20, 1994, in Slagelse, Denmark. He started acting in Vikings when he was just 22 years old.
As Ivar, Andersen portrays one of the most famous Vikings of all time. His character is known for being smart and cruel.
Playing Ivar was tough work for Andersen. The show was filmed in Ireland, where the weather can be harsh.
Andersen brought Ivar to life with great skill. He made the character both scary and likable at the same time.
Before Vikings, Andersen had acted in other shows. But it was his role as Ivar that made him famous around the world.
Fans loved watching Andersen grow as an actor during his time on Vikings. He stayed with the show until it ended in 2020.
9. Georgia Hirst as Torvi
Georgia Hirst played the role of Torvi in the hit TV series Vikings. She joined the cast in 2014 and appeared in 63 episodes until the show ended in 2020.
Torvi became a fan favorite character over the years. She started as a minor role but grew into a strong and important figure in the Viking world.
Georgia Hirst was born on December 26, 1994 in Oxford, England. She comes from a family with strong ties to the show. Her father, Michael Hirst, created and wrote Vikings.
Interestingly, Georgia’s sister Maude also acted in Vikings. Maude played the character Helga, adding a fun family connection to the series.
Georgia’s portrayal of Torvi showed the character’s growth from a young shield-maiden to a respected leader. Fans loved watching Torvi’s journey through the seasons.
In the final episodes of Vikings, Georgia hinted at some big changes. She called the last part of the series “completely different”, exciting fans for the conclusion of Torvi’s story.
10. Jennie Jacques as Judith
Jennie Jacques brings the character of Judith to life in the popular TV series Vikings. Her portrayal adds depth and intrigue to the show’s complex storylines.
Judith is the daughter of King Aelle of Northumbria and later becomes the wife of Prince Aethelwulf of Wessex. Jacques skillfully depicts Judith’s growth from a young princess to a influential figure in the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms.
The English actress joined the Vikings cast in 2015 and remained a key player until 2019. Her performance captures Judith’s struggles with power, faith, and family loyalties.
Jacques appears in 42 episodes of Vikings, making her one of the most featured actors in the series. Her character’s journey includes forbidden love, political maneuvering, and personal sacrifice.
Fans of the show appreciate Jacques’ ability to convey Judith’s inner turmoil and strength. Her scenes with other cast members, especially those involving court intrigue, are often highlights of the episodes she’s in.
Jacques’ work on Vikings has helped establish her as a talented actress in historical dramas. Her portrayal of Judith adds a compelling layer to the show’s exploration of medieval power dynamics and cultural clashes.
11. Peter Franzén as King Harald Finehair
Peter Franzén brings King Harald Finehair to life in the hit TV show Vikings. This Finnish actor joined the cast in 2016 and quickly became a fan favorite.
Franzén’s portrayal of Harald is both fierce and charming. He shows the king’s ambition to rule all of Norway, while also revealing his softer side.
Harald Finehair is based on a real historical figure. In the show, he starts as a rival to Ragnar Lothbrok but later becomes an important ally.
Franzén’s acting skills shine as he depicts Harald’s complex character. He balances the king’s ruthless nature with moments of vulnerability and humor.
The actor’s performance in Vikings has earned him praise from fans and critics alike. His scenes are often intense and memorable.
Peter Franzén’s work extends beyond Vikings. He’s a well-known actor in Finland with a career spanning decades. His role as Harald Finehair has introduced him to a global audience.
12. Moe Dunford as Aethelwulf
Moe Dunford brought the character of Aethelwulf to life in the hit TV show Vikings. He played Aethelwulf from seasons 2 to 5, starting as a recurring role before becoming a series regular.
Aethelwulf was the son of King Ecbert and eventually became the King of Wessex. Dunford portrayed him as a loyal son who didn’t always agree with his father’s choices, especially regarding the Norse invaders.
The Irish actor’s performance showed Aethelwulf’s growth from a skeptical prince to a determined ruler. Dunford captured the character’s inner conflicts and desire to protect his kingdom.
Dunford’s time on Vikings was a big break in his career. It helped him gain recognition and opened doors to other acting opportunities. His portrayal of Aethelwulf earned him praise from fans and critics alike.
Sadly, Aethelwulf’s story came to an unexpected end. In a twist that surprised many viewers, the character died from a bee sting. This unusual exit for such a prominent character left a lasting impression on the show’s audience.
13. John Kavanagh as The Seer
John Kavanagh brings the mysterious Seer to life in the TV series Vikings. The Seer is a key figure in Viking society, trusted to interpret the will of the gods.
Kavanagh’s portrayal is haunting and memorable. His raspy voice and eerie presence add depth to the character. The Seer’s cryptic prophecies often guide the show’s main characters.
The actor’s talent shines through the heavy makeup and prosthetics. He makes the Seer both wise and unsettling. Kavanagh’s performance helps create the show’s mystical atmosphere.
The Seer character appears throughout the series. He offers guidance to Vikings from all walks of life. His words often shape the course of events in the show.
Kavanagh’s work on Vikings was so well-received that he returned to play the Seer in the sequel series, Vikings: Valhalla. This shows how central his character became to the Vikings universe.
14. Jonathan Rhys Meyers as Bishop Heahmund
Jonathan Rhys Meyers joined the cast of Vikings in season 5 as Bishop Heahmund. This character was a real historical figure who served as the Bishop of Sherborne.
Heahmund was a unique addition to the show. He was a warrior bishop who fought with skill and passion. His character brought a new dynamic to the series, blending religious fervor with combat prowess.
Rhys Meyers portrayed Heahmund with intensity and charisma. He appeared in 16 episodes from 2017 to 2019, making a lasting impact on the story.
The actor’s performance was praised by fans and critics alike. He brought depth to Heahmund, showing both his strengths and flaws. Rhys Meyers’ portrayal helped make the character memorable and complex.
Bishop Heahmund’s storyline involved conflicts with the Vikings and internal struggles with his faith. His interactions with other characters, especially Ivar the Boneless, added excitement to the plot.
15. George Blagden as Athelstan
George Blagden played Athelstan in the hit TV series Vikings. Athelstan was a Saxon monk who became a captive of Ragnar Lothbrok during a raid on England.
Blagden’s character went through a fascinating journey. He started as a devout Christian but gradually embraced Viking culture. This transformation made Athelstan one of the most complex and interesting characters on the show.
Athelstan’s role was crucial in bridging the gap between Christian and Norse cultures. He served as a translator and advisor to Ragnar, helping viewers understand Viking ways through his eyes.
Blagden’s portrayal was so popular that it led to a spin-off series. Vikings: Athelstan’s Journal explored the character’s thoughts and experiences in more depth.
Sadly, Athelstan’s journey came to an end in the third season. His departure from the show was a significant moment for both the characters and the audience.
Blagden’s performance as Athelstan left a lasting impact on Vikings. He brought depth and humanity to a character caught between two worlds.
16. Alyssa Sutherland as Queen Aslaug
Alyssa Sutherland brings the clever and beautiful Queen Aslaug to life in the hit TV series Vikings. Born on September 23, 1982, in Brisbane, Australia, Sutherland started her career as a model before turning to acting.
In Vikings, Sutherland portrays Aslaug, the second wife of Ragnar Lothbrok. Her character is known for her wisdom and ability to see into the future. Aslaug’s arrival in the show adds complexity to the storyline and creates tension with Ragnar’s first wife, Lagertha.
Sutherland joined the cast in the first season and quickly became a fan favorite. Her portrayal of Aslaug showcases the character’s strength and determination as she navigates the treacherous world of Viking politics.
Before Vikings, Sutherland appeared in various films and TV shows. However, her role as Queen Aslaug marked a significant breakthrough in her acting career.
Sutherland’s performance in Vikings helped pave the way for other roles. In 2023, she starred in the horror film Evil Dead Rise as Ellie, further showcasing her range as an actress.
17. Linus Roache as King Ecbert
Linus Roache brings King Ecbert to life in the hit TV series Vikings. His portrayal of the ruler of Wessex is both captivating and complex.
King Ecbert is a cunning and ambitious leader. He dreams of expanding his kingdom and becoming the most powerful ruler in England. Roache’s performance captures Ecbert’s intelligence and sophistication perfectly.
The actor infuses the character with charm and wit. At the same time, he shows Ecbert’s ruthless side when dealing with enemies. Roache’s nuanced acting reveals the many layers of this fascinating historical figure.
Ecbert’s interactions with Ragnar Lothbrok are particularly compelling. Their conversations about power, religion, and culture are some of the show’s most thought-provoking moments.
Roache’s King Ecbert is a fan favorite. His presence on screen always promises intrigue and drama. The actor’s talent shines through in every scene, making Ecbert a truly unforgettable character in the Vikings saga.
18. Ben Robson as Kalf
Ben Robson brought the character of Kalf to life in the hit TV series Vikings. Kalf was the Earl of Hedeby and an ally of Lagertha, a powerful shieldmaiden.
Robson’s portrayal showed Kalf’s ambitious and calculating nature. He took control of Hedeby by overthrowing Lagertha, his lover and the former wife of Viking King Ragnar Lothbrok.
In the show, Kalf later made Lagertha co-Earl with him. This move displayed his political skills and ability to adapt to changing situations.
Robson’s performance as Kalf added depth to the Vikings cast. He brought a mix of charm and cunning to the role, making Kalf a complex and interesting character.
The British actor’s work on Vikings helped boost his career. After his time on the show, Robson went on to star in other TV series, including Animal Kingdom.
19. Gabriel Byrne as Earl Haraldson
Gabriel Byrne played Earl Haraldson in the first season of Vikings. The Irish actor brought depth to this powerful character.
Earl Haraldson was the ruler of Kattegat when we first met Ragnar Lothbrok. He was skeptical of Ragnar’s ambitions to sail west.
Byrne’s portrayal showed Earl Haraldson as a strong but cautious leader. He worried about threats to his power and wealth.
The actor gave a memorable performance as the earl. He made viewers understand why people both respected and feared Haraldson.
One of the most intense moments was when Earl Haraldson faced Ragnar in single combat. Byrne’s acting made the scene gripping.
Though he only appeared in a few episodes, Gabriel Byrne left a lasting impact on Vikings. His Earl Haraldson set the tone for the conflicts that would shape the show’s future seasons.
20. Maude Hirst as Helga
Maude Hirst brings the character of Helga to life in the hit TV show Vikings. Helga is Floki’s loyal wife and a beloved figure among fans. Her compassion and unwavering support for her husband make her stand out.
Hirst’s portrayal of Helga spans 38 episodes from 2013 to 2017. She captures Helga’s gentle nature and strength as she navigates the harsh Viking world. Her chemistry with Gustaf Skarsgård, who plays Floki, adds depth to their on-screen relationship.
Born in February 1988, Maude Hirst comes from a family with strong ties to the entertainment industry. Her father, Michael Hirst, is the creator and writer of Vikings. This connection likely gave her unique insights into the show’s world.
Hirst’s performance as Helga showcases her acting skills. She brings warmth and humanity to a character living in a often brutal environment. Fans appreciate how she portrays Helga’s growth throughout the series.
