MGM+, formerly known as Epix, has debuted the first look at it's upcoming fantasy drama, The Winter King. The streamer previously gave the series a 10-episode order for its first season.
The series is based on Bernard Cornwell’s Warlord Chronicles series, which consists of three books:
- The Winter King (first published in1995)
- Enemy of God (first published in1996)
- Excalibur (first published in 1997)
The English-American author is also known for the Saxon Chronicles which were later adapted by the BBC and Netflix as The Last Kingdom. That series covered the first 10 novels in the 13 novel saga and starred Alexander Dreymon as Uhtred of Bebbanburg.
Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. fans should recognize the lead actor playing Arthur, as Iain De Caestecker previously played Fitz on the ABC superhero drama.
The series is set in the fifth century, when Britain was comprised of a vast myriad of tribes all warring for land and resources. The novels tell the origin story of Arthur Pendragon, and also includes other Arthurian legends such as Merlin, Nimue, Lancelot, and Galahad.
The Winter King premieres August 20th, 2023- only on MGM+.
The Winter King, based on Bernard Cornwell’s Warlord Chronicles series, is set in the fifth century, long before Britain was united, in a brutal land of warring factions and tribes, where lives were often fleeting. The series follows Arthur Pendragon as he evolves from outcast to legendary warrior and leader. The series stars Iain De Caestecker (The Control Room, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.) as Arthur Pendragon, alongside Eddie Marsan (The Thief, His Wife and the Canoe, Deceit) as High King Uther, Ellie James (Giri/Haji, I May Destroy You) as Nimue, Nathaniel Martello-White (Small Axe, I Hate Suzie) as Merlin, Stuart Campbell (Rogue Heroes, Clique) as Derfel, Daniel Ings (I Hate Suzie, The Crown) as Owain, Valene Kane (The Fall, Gangs of London) as Morgan, Jordan Alexandra (Mammals) as Guinevere, and Simon Merrells (Good Omens, Knightfall) as Gundleus.