The Vikings of legends have always garnered an inspired fandom be it through their era in history or screens today. The indomitable spirit of these fierce Norse warriors has left an indelible mark on both history and pop culture. From the breathtaking fjords of Scandinavia to the mesmerizing glow of cinema and television, the Vikings’ captivating tales of bravery and adventure have enraptured audiences worldwide.
Journey through time, into the realm of 10 remarkable Viking portrayals on screen, each assessed for their profound impact, historical authenticity, and the magnetic performances that brought these legendary figures to life. Discover how these epic characters have forever etched themselves into the hearts and minds of viewers, keeping the spirit of the Vikings alive through the ages.
With the recent conclusion of Vinland Saga Season 2 being met with praise by both fans and critics, it’s clear that there’s enduring interest in series and films set in the fascinating historical period. More importantly, there’s a growing demand for authentic and well-written characters that participate in exciting stories set in the Viking age, many of which are outlined here.
10 Kjartan the Cruel
‘The Last Kingdom’ (2015 – 2022)
The Last Kingdom follows Uhtred of Bebbanburg (Alexander Dreymon), a Saxon nobleman who finds himself torn between his Saxon heritage and his upbringing among the Vikings. Amidst the rich tapestry of characters that populate the series, one figure stands out with menacing prominence – Kjartan (Alex Beckett). As a ruthless Viking antagonist, Kjartan’s presence injects the show with an intense blend of tension and intrigue, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats.
Within the world of The Last Kingdom, Kjartan’s character emerges as a formidable force to be reckoned with. With a cunning and calculating demeanor, he becomes a worthy adversary to Uhtred and his companions, presenting challenges that test their mettle at every turn. His ruthless pursuit of power and revenge makes him an unforgettable and integral part of the series, leaving an indelible mark on the epic journey of Uhtred and the fate of England.
9 Prince Einar
‘The Vikings’ (1958)
In the must-see 1958 filmThe Vikings, Kirk Douglas delivers a powerful performance as Viking Prince Einar, who is torn between loyalty to his father and his thirst for power. Einar’s character is a compelling blend of a fierce warrior and an emotionally vulnerable individual.
Kirk Douglas’s portrayal of Einar is a mesmerizing depiction of a young Viking’s journey from impulsive ambition to mature leadership. His on-screen presence captivates the audience, showcasing Einar’s struggle to balance duty and personal ambition. As one of the most memorable characters in cinematic history, Einar becomes a symbol of human growth and transformation.
8 Floki
‘Vikings’ (2013 – 2020)
In the epic series Vikings, Gustaf Skarsgard delivers a truly remarkable performance as the enigmatic and eccentric character, Floki. He serves as Ragnar’s (Travis Fimmel) trusted confidant and shipbuilder and is unwaveringly loyal to him.
Floki’s eccentricity becomes a defining trait of his character. His actions remain unpredictable, whilst he marches to the beat of his own drums. His unorthodox approach to life draws viewers closer to his enigmatic nature, leaving them eager to unravel the mysteries that lie beneath his unconventional exterior.
7 Thors Snorresson
‘Vinland Saga’ (2019 – )
Stepping into the captivating world of anime, Vinland Saga introduces us to the legendary Viking warrior, Thors Snorresson, whose voice is brought to life by the talented Naoya Uchida. Follow Thors as he evolves from a fierce and battle-hardened warrior to a man seeking solace in the embrace of peaceful family life. His desire for a world free from the relentless clutches of violence and war becomes a driving force that sets him apart in this tale of epic proportions.
Yet, destiny has a way of catching up with even the most resolute souls, and Thors finds himself confronted with a past he had tried to leave behind. The emotional depth of his return to the world of Viking warriors is nothing short of awe-inspiring. As he grapples with the ghosts of his past and the clash of his newfound convictions, Thors becomes an embodiment of conflicting emotions, offering viewers a poignant portrayal of inner turmoil and the complexities of human nature. In Vinland Saga, Thors’ character shines as a remarkable testament to the enduring struggle between the longing for peace and the inexorable call of the warrior’s spirit.
6 Bjorn Ironside
‘Vikings’ (2013 – 2020)
The eldest son of Ragnar Lothbrok, Bjorn Ironside (Alexander Ludwig) is a powerful character in Vikings. He proves himself to be a worthy successor to his father’s legacy. Few could hope to match his battle prowess and adventurous spirit.
Bjorn’s character explores uncharted territories, leading his people on daring expeditions and trying to overcome loss and betrayal while gearing up to fight some of the toughest battles in his life. His complex character arc showcases the struggle of living up to the legacy of a legendary father.
5 Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III
‘How to Train Your Dragon’ (2010)
A fictional animated character from a small fictional Viking town would go on to start a massive franchise beloved by thousands of fans today. Hiccup (voiced by Jay Baruchel) started out as an awkward teenager who wanted nothing more than to be recognized as a fellow dragon slayer by his community. When he meets a Night Fury and has the opportunity to kill it, however, he just can’t – it would be the start of a beautiful friendship.
Hiccup’s transformative arc in the How to Train Your Dragon franchise has taken him to some strange places. Far from being the young insecure teen he once was, fans have watched him change into a brave adult capable of leading his people into battle.
4 Lagertha
‘Vikings’ (2013 – 2020)
When delving into the world of remarkable Vikings, one cannot overlook the indomitable shield-maiden, Lagertha, played by the talented Katheryn Winnick in the series Vikings is nothing short of awe-inspiring. As the formidable wife of Ragnar Lothbrok, Lagertha stands tall, breaking free from societal norms and defying traditional gender roles. With an unwavering spirit and a warrior’s heart, she becomes an emblem of empowerment for viewers worldwide.
Lagertha’s story within Vikings is a testament to her unwavering determination and steadfast commitment to her path. From her origins as a fierce shield maiden, she rises through the ranks, earning the respect and admiration of her peers. Her transformation into a revered earl showcases her ability to overcome challenges and seize her destiny with unyielding courage. In Lagertha, audiences find a captivating character whose legacy goes far beyond the confines of the screen.
3 Buliwyf
‘The 13th Warrior’ (1999)
The 13th Warrior follows the storyline of Buliwyf (Vladimir Kulich), a formidable Viking leader and a character of legendary status. With strategic brilliance and a Stoic demeanor, Buliwyf commands respect and admiration from his fellow warriors. His leadership inspires unwavering loyalty, solidifying his place among the greatest Viking characters in cinematic history.
As the epic saga unfolds, the audience is drawn into a tale of adventure, camaraderie, and heroism, witnessing Buliwyf’s unwavering courage as he fearlessly leads his men through perilous challenges. His captivating portrayal leaves an indelible mark on the tapestry of Viking legends and their enthralling stories.
2 Amleth
‘The Northman’ (2022)
An actor of unrivaled physical presence and astonishing, chameleonic versatility, Emmy winner Alexander Skarsgård gave one of his best performances in The Northman, as a formidable Viking prince who seeks retribution for his father’s murder.
Following head-turning horror films The Witchand The Lighthouse, Robert Eggers brought his trademark attention to detail to this relatively higher-budgeted production that only did so-so at the box office, but will likely develop a cult following thanks to immersive period detail, great action, and strong performances.
1 Ragnar Lothbrok
‘Vikings’ (2013 – 2020)
Undoubtedly, the most iconic Viking character to grace television screens is Ragnar Lothbrok (Travis Fimmel), in the hit TV series Vikings. His evolution from a farmer to a fearsome leader and legendary hero is a captivating one. He is the main protagonist of the series.
Fimmel’s portrayal of the legendary Viking chieftain is a mesmerizing blend of cunning strategy, relentless ambition, and complex emotions. He is often praised by fans who share the general opinion that there was no one more suitable to play the role.
