
Game of Thrones star joins 'promising' new historical BBC drama opposite James Norton
The series, formerly known as 1066, will see the pair battle for the throne alongside their respective wives.
The teaser features James Norton in the role of Harold, Earl of Wessex, while Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, known for Game of Thrones, plays William, Duke of Normandy.
The drama will depict the duo's struggle for the throne, alongside their respective wives, Edith Swan-neck (Emily Beecham) and Matilda (Clémence Poésy).
The trailer also introduces allies and foes such as King Edward (Eddie Marsan), Lady Emma (Juliet Stevenson), Morcar (Elander Moore), Gytha (Clare Holman), Tostig (Luther Ford), Queen Gunhild (Bo Bragason) and Godwin (Geoff Bell).
King and Conqueror tells the tale of a conflict that shaped the destiny of a nation – and a continent – for a millennium, with roots reaching back decades and extending through two intertwined family dynasties, vying for power across two countries and a turbulent sea, reports the Mirror.
Harold of Wessex and William of Normandy were two men fated to clash at the Battle of Hastings in 1066; two allies with no initial ambition for the English throne, who found themselves compelled by circumstance and personal obsession into a war for its crown.
The programme consists of eight hour-long episodes and will also feature Jean-Marc Barr as King Henry, Elliott Cowan as Sweyn, Bjarne Henriksen as Earl Siward, Oliver Masucci as Baldwin, Indy Lewis as Margaret, Jason Forbes as Thane Thomas, Ingvar Sigurdsson as Fitzosbern, Ines Asserson as Judith, Sveinn Ólafur Gunnarsson as Hardrada and Léo Legrand as Odo.
Fresh promotional artwork for the drama presents a monochrome portrait of Harold with a resolute expression whilst William looms behind him, ready for combat.
BBC audiences were swift to react to the programme's preview, with one commenting: "I hope they include the part where William had Harold buried on the beach, to guard the English shore.'I always found that quite touching, like a mark of his respect for such a great warrior."
Another contributed: "The story of William the Conqueror; updated for a modern audience," whilst a third wrote: "Bout damn time they dropped this trailer. They been talking about this show for a year and a half."
Someone else remarked: "Hopefully, this show will fulfill how I missed Vikings," as another contributed: "First i have heard of this but it seems really promising."
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