Vikings: Valhalla, 2022’s most anticipated historical series based on the Norse warrior’s era is out on Netflix with critics’ nod of approval. Even though episode 1 takes off 125 years after the events of Ragnar Lothbrok (Travis Fimmel) expeditions – fans need not fret as viewers are quickly reminded the new series follows its predecessors’ footsteps and remembers the history of Ragnar and his sons in helping Vikings settlements expand across the west of England.
Warning: Article contains spoilers to Vikings: Valhalla episode 1
Vikings: Valhalla begins showing a Norse settlement in England of the Danelaw with pagans converted to Christianity celebrating St. Brice’s Day. But the current King of England, Æthelred II (Bosco Hogan) puts an end to Vikings’ expansion by purging every settlement, including innocent women and children.
OG Vikings fans would struggle to see the once-great Norsemen sworn to their belief in Odin, fall victim to Christianity’s conversion. Yet Leo Suter’s Harald Sigurdsson reminds viewers that Christ-following Viking men are just as ruthless in seeking revenge. While the great-grandson of Harald Finehair (Peter Vilhelm Franzén) is still in his early days, Bradley Freegard‘s Canute is currently King of Denmark and assembles a great army to seek revenge against the Englishmen.
Before the show got caught up in the current time’s adventure and glory – it quickly offers a throwback tribute to the great heathen army. Canute’s rally speech is filled with praises for Bjorn Ironside (Alexander Ludwig) and Ivar the Boneless (Alex Høgh Andersen) with mentions to the Son of Ragnar’s conquest in England to avenge Ragnar’s death.
A few more brief references to Lothbrok and his sons are made by King Canute during his stay in Kattegat. Added, the series also remembers the once-great shieldmaiden and Queen of Kattegat, Lagertha (Katheryn Winnick). It seems likely later episodes would throw more references to connect to the original Vikings since the series’ events aren’t too long apart.
Vikings: Valhalla season 1 is available to stream on Netflix.
