Happy Valley’s James Norton stars in epic first-look trailer for new BBC drama King & Conqueror

In one instance, Norton’s character, Harold, declares: “I won’t allow William to entertain thoughts of seizing the crown.” However, William is determined to resist, mobilizing his troops to challenge Harold. As both sides prepare for battle, the tension escalates significantly as the battle lines become crystal clear.

In a booming voice, William exclaims to his troops, “I am the authentic monarch of England!” Just as he speaks, they surge forward, and breathtaking battle sequences ensue.

You can watch the trailer for yourself below.

The trailer offers a sneak peek at the large ensemble cast, featuring Emily Beecham portraying Edith Swan-neck, Clémence Poésy playing Matilda, Eddie Marsan in the role of King Edward, Juliet Stevenson as Lady Emma, Elander Moore as Morcar, Clare Holman as Gytha, Luther Ford as Tostig, Bo Bragason as Queen Gunhild, and Geoff Bell as Godwin.

The series features notable actors such as Jean-Marc Barr portraying King Henry, Elliott Cowan as Sweyn, Bjarne Henriksen playing Earl Siward, Oliver Masucci in the role of Baldwin, Indy Lewis acting as Margaret, Jason Forbes taking on Thane Thomas, Ingvar Sigurdsson portraying Fitzosbern, Ines Asserson as Judith, Sveinn Ólafur Gunnarsson as Hardrada, and Léo Legrand in the role of Odo.

King & Conqueror recounts a centuries-long struggle for dominance that shaped the destiny of a nation and an entire continent. This epic battle traces its origins to decades past and unfolds through the interwoven stories of two powerful dynasties, locked in conflict across two nations, separated by a stormy sea.

In 1066, I found myself, Harold of Wessex and William of Normandy, unknowingly marching towards a fateful encounter at the Battle of Hastings. At the time, we were bonded by alliance, with no intentions of seizing the English throne. However, as fate would have it, we were thrust into a conflict, not by choice, but by circumstances beyond our control and an unrelenting personal desire that drove us to vie for possession of its coveted crown.

Last year, we shared some initial glimpses of the series with you. However, this new trailer offers a more comprehensive peek into the series, and we’re confident that it will become a standout addition to your television viewing later on this year.

He shared that the creation of the show was a significant personal experience for him, since he was also responsible for its production. Over approximately six to seven years, he has been nurturing and refining this project, which has involved numerous discussions with directors, writers, and other key figures. This process has been a lengthy one, spanning many years.

He remarked, ‘That’s a tale untold in cinema, surprisingly, it’s the Battle of Hastings that has never been portrayed on screen. It’s thrilling, indeed, and I feel nothing but pride.’