Prime Video has officially renewed its upcoming historical drama Bloodaxe for a second season—months before the first season has even premiered. The early renewal underscores strong internal confidence in the series, which is set to debut globally across more than 240 countries and territories.
The announcement was made on June 16, 2026, with production for Season 2 already scheduled to begin in August in Dublin, Ireland.
Early Renewal Highlights Studio Confidence
It’s rare for a series to secure a second season before its premiere, making Bloodaxe’s renewal a notable move in the streaming landscape. According to Amazon MGM Studios, the decision reflects both the scale of the project and the pedigree behind it.
Michael Hirst, best known for creating Vikings, is co-creating the series alongside Horatio Hirst. In a statement shared by Prime Video, Hirst expressed enthusiasm about the early renewal:
“We are very excited to announce that Amazon have already commissioned a second season of our new Norse saga for Prime Video… We are so proud of the way Bloodaxe has turned out, in terms of its incredible storylines and its powerful invocation of Viking beliefs.”
He also emphasized the show’s ambition to blend historical storytelling with mythological elements, adding that the team aims to immerse audiences in a distinctly Norse worldview.
Bloodaxe centers on the rise of Erik Bloodaxe, one of the most infamous Viking rulers in history. Played by Xavier Molyneux, the character is depicted alongside his equally formidable wife Gunnhild, portrayed by Jessica Madsen.
The first season will explore their struggle for power in Norway, a kingdom fractured by political instability, rival factions, and violent betrayals. As alliances shift and enemies gather, the story expands beyond Scandinavia, drawing in foreign rulers and escalating toward large-scale conflict.
The narrative promises a mix of grounded historical drama and stylized storytelling, with themes of faith, power, and survival shaping the series’ tone.
Creative Vision and Global Appeal
Peter Friedlander, Head of Global Television at Amazon MGM Studios, praised the creative team’s vision and track record:
“Michael and Horatio are skillful storytellers whose work has consistently demonstrated the global appeal of ambitious historical drama. With Bloodaxe, they have created a sweeping saga that combines rich historical detail, compelling characters, and cinematic scale.”
This aligns with Prime Video’s broader strategy to invest in large-scale, globally appealing content that can resonate across markets.
The ensemble cast includes Xavier Molyneux, Jessica Madsen, Karlis Arnolds Avots, Levi Miller, and several other international actors. The series is produced by MGM Television, with multiple executive producers contributing to its development.
Production for Season 2 beginning so soon after the announcement suggests that the studio is aiming for continuity and momentum, potentially shortening the gap between seasons if the first installment performs well.
