James Norton, known for his role in “Happy Valley,” and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, famous for his portrayal of Jaime Lannister in “Game of Thrones,” are set to star in the upcoming CBS Studios period drama series “King and Conqueror.” Created by Michael Robert Johnson, the series delves into the historical figures of Harold of Wessex and William of Normandy, who played pivotal roles in the 11th-century Battle of Hastings. Production for the series is scheduled to commence in 2024.
“King and Conqueror” takes viewers on a journey through time, exploring the clash between two powerful families that shaped the destiny of a country and a continent. The roots of this conflict span decades and extend across two countries and a tumultuous sea. Harold of Wessex and William of Normandy, initially allies with no aspirations for the British throne, find themselves entangled in a war driven by circumstance and personal obsession.
Lindsey Martin, senior vice president of international co-productions and development at CBS Studios, expressed her excitement about the partnership with James Norton, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, and the entire creative team. She described “King and Conqueror” as a groundbreaking series, boasting not only world-class talent but also a global appeal. Martin praised Michael Robert Johnson’s scripts for offering a bold and fresh take on a story that has endured for nearly 1,000 years. Despite the historical setting, the themes explored in the series remain relevant and contemporary.
In addition to being the series creator and executive producer, Michael Robert Johnson will collaborate with James Norton and Kitty Kaletsky from Rabbit Track Pictures, Baltasar Kormákur from RVK Studios, Robert Taylor from The Development Partnership, Dave Clarke and Richard Halliwell from Shepherd Content, Ed Clarke, Robert Jones, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, and Lindsey Martin from CBS Studios as executive producers. Kormákur will also direct the premiere episode, utilizing his expertise to steer the creative direction of the entire series.
The BBC has secured broadcasting rights for “King and Conqueror” in the United Kingdom, ensuring that British audiences will have the opportunity to experience this historical drama firsthand through BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Paramount Global Content Distribution will handle the distribution of the series outside of the UK market, ensuring its global reach.
James Norton is represented by The Artists Partnership, WME, and Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole, while Nikolaj Coster-Waldau is represented by UTA and Sloane Offer Weber, showcasing the caliber of talent involved in this project.
The world eagerly awaits the premiere of “King and Conqueror,” a series that promises to transport viewers back in time to witness a clash of power, ambition, and destiny. With an exceptional cast, a creative team dedicated to breathing new life into a historical narrative, and international collaboration, this period drama is poised to captivate audiences across the globe.