Who’s in the Cast of King & Conqueror? Meet the stars joining James Norton in the BBC's new drama.
King & Conqueror premieres on BBC One on the evening of Sunday, 24 August. We take a look at the cast joining James Norton in the thrilling new drama.
This Bank Holiday, BBC One and iPlayer will transport viewers back to the 11th century with the launch of King & Conqueror, a sweeping historical drama exploring the intertwined destinies of Harold of Wessex and William of Normandy. At the heart of the story are two men whose rivalry culminated in the Battle of Hastings in 1066, shaping the future of England—and Europe—for centuries to come.
Leading the charge, James Norton takes on the role of Harold, Earl of Wessex. Norton, who has captivated audiences in Happy Valley and as the titular figure in Bob Marley: One Love, brings depth and intensity to the reluctant king-to-be. Opposite him, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau plays William, Duke of Normandy. The Danish actor is best known for his role as Jaime Lannister in Game of Thrones, a performance that earned him international acclaim.
The series also features a strong ensemble of talent portraying the pivotal figures surrounding Harold and William. Emily Beecham, known for her Emmy-winning turn in 1899 and the award-nominated Little Joe, plays Edith Swan Neck, Harold’s wife. Clémence Poésy, who previously charmed audiences in In Bruges and The Tunnel, portrays Matilda, William’s determined and politically astute wife.
Rounding out the cast are veteran performers and rising stars bringing gravitas to the political and personal intrigues of the era:
Eddie Marsan (The Power, Ray Donovan) as King Edward, a monarch whose death sparks the dynastic struggle.
Juliet Stevenson (Truly, Madly, Deeply, Riviera) as Lady Emma, providing wisdom and guidance amid the chaos.
Jean-Marc Barr (The Big Blue, American Translation) as King Henry, adding international heft to the story.
Luther Ford (The Crown) as Tostig, Harold’s brother whose ambitions complicate the succession.
Joseph Mawle (Game of Thrones, The Rings of Power) as Fitzosbern, a key ally in the conflict.
Geoff Bell (Absentia, Top Boy) as Godwin, navigating loyalty and family ties.
Elliot Cowan (Black Cake, Foundation) as Sweyn, a figure caught between diplomacy and warfare.
Bo Bragason (Renegade Nell, The Jetty) as Queen Gunhild, wielding influence in her own right.
Bjarne Henriksen (The Hunt, Borgen) as Earl Siward, a formidable presence in the northern lands.
Clare Holman (Inspector Morse, Lewis) as Gytha, a matriarch steering her family through turbulent times.
Oliver Mascucci (Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore, Look Who’s Back) as Baldwin, a supporting player with a pivotal role in the unfolding conflict.
Filmed against the stunning landscapes of Iceland, King & Conqueror captures the harsh, windswept environments that shaped medieval life while immersing viewers in a story of ambition, loyalty, and obsession. The series traces the decades-long rivalries and alliances between two family dynasties, ultimately leading to the historic clash at Hastings.
King & Conqueror premieres on BBC One on the evening of Sunday, 24 August, with all episodes available on BBC iPlayer from 6am that morning. For fans of historical drama and epic storytelling, this is one series not to miss.
Words: Simon Baines