Season 2 of the Historical drama Vikings expanded the world of Kattegat, introducing brutal political maneuvers, shifting alliances, and complex characters who shaped the trajectory of the entire series. When the season aired on the History Channel, it cemented the show as a powerhouse by tracking Ragnar Lothbrok's rise to power, Lagertha's fierce independence, and the introduction of calculating rulers like King Ecbert.
Understanding where the core ensemble of season 2 stands today requires looking past their on-screen fates. Many of these actors used the momentum from the show to land major roles in global film franchises, prestige television, and independent projects, while others transitioned into directing or advocacy work.
Ragnar Lothbrok Played by Travis Fimmel
Travis Fimmel anchored the series as the magnetic, unpredictable Ragnar Lothbrok. His performance in season 2 balanced tactical brilliance with deep personal turmoil, particularly during his conflicts with King Horrik and his strained marriages.
After his character's exit, Fimmel didn't slow down. He transitioned smoothly into high-profile feature films and streaming series. He starred as Anduin Lothar in the big-budget fantasy adaptation Warcraft and played a lead role in Ridley Scott's sci-fi series Raised by Wolves on Max. He also appeared in the gritty country drama Black Snow and features like Countryman. Fimmel maintains a relatively quiet personal life outside of acting, often spending time on his farm in Australia when he isn't on set.
Lagertha Played by Katheryn Winnick
As shieldmaiden and Earl, Lagertha defined resilience throughout season 2, navigating a painful divorce from Ragnar and reclaiming her power with calculated authority. Katheryn Winnick brought a physical intensity and emotional depth to the role that made Lagertha a fan favorite.
Winnick leveraged her platform on Vikings into diverse industry roles. She starred in the crime drama Big Sky as Jenny Hoyt and appeared alongside Liam Neeson in the action thriller The Marksman. Beyond acting, Winnick stepped behind the camera, directing episodes of television, including work on the Netflix series Wu Assassins, where she also played a lead role. Holding a black belt in taekwondo and karate, she frequently performs her own stunts and advocates for martial arts training in youth programs.
Rollo Played by Clive Standen
Rollo spent season 2 battling bitter jealousy toward his brother Ragnar, culminating in a fragile reconciliation and his eventual integration into future territorial conflicts. Clive Standen captured Rollo's internal conflict—torn between loyalty to his blood and a desperate need to carve out his own legacy.
Following his tenure on the series, Standen secured leading roles in major action and drama properties. He starred as Bryan Mills in the television adaptation of Taken and played United States Marine Corps veteran Lee Adams in the thriller series Council of Dads. He also lent his voice and acting talents to video game projects and stage productions, showcasing a range that extends well past historical warrior archetypes.
Floki Played by Gustaf Skarsgård
The eccentric boatbuilder and devout pagan Floki grew increasingly unhinged and protective of Ragnar's path during season 2. Gustaf Skarsgård infused the character with a twitchy, unpredictable energy that kept viewers guessing about his true loyalties.
Skarsgård remains a prominent figure in international film and television. Shortly after his time on the show wrapped, he joined the cast of HBO's critically acclaimed sci-fi series Westworld as Karl Strand. He also starred in the Swedish drama The Emigrants and has been heavily involved in environmental advocacy, working with organizations focused on ocean conservation and eco-activism.
King Ecbert Played by Linus Roache
Introduced in season 2, King Ecbert of Wessex immediately established himself as Ragnar's intellectual equal and most formidable adversary. Linus Roache portrayed the monarch as a cultured, ruthless strategist who appreciated Roman history just as much as he plotted the destruction of northern raiders.
Roache brought decades of classical training to the role, and his career continued at a high level after the series ended. He took on a recurring role in the political thriller series Homeland as David Wellington and appeared in Showtime's award-winning miniseries Fellow Travelers. His extensive resume also includes notable stage performances and guest appearances across British and American television.
Bjorn Ironside Played by Alexander Ludwig
Portraying the teenage version of Ragnar and Lagertha's eldest son, Alexander Ludwig captured Bjorn's transition from a loyal son into a headstrong warrior during season 2.
Ludwig has maintained a steady presence in film and television. He starred as Ace Gully in the wrestling drama series Heels and appeared in action films such as Bad Boys for Life and Guy Ritchie's The Covenant. Outside of his acting career, Ludwig focuses on his country music endeavors, releasing independent singles, and spending time with his growing family.
Princess Aslaug Played by Alyssa Sutherland
Aslaug's presence in Kattegat during season 2 strained Ragnar's domestic life and introduced a complex dynamic involving prophecy, motherhood, and royal ambition. Alyssa Sutherland played the enigmatic queen with a cool, distant grace.
Sutherland transitioned into horror and genre projects after her time on the show concluded. She delivered a terrifying, standout performance as the possessed mother Ellie in the 2023 horror hit Evil Dead Rise. She continues to work across international film and television markets while maintaining a private personal life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did all the main characters from Season 2 survive until the end of the series?
No. Vikings was known for high-stakes mortality, and several prominent characters introduced or heavily featured in season 2—such as King Horrik and Athelstan—met violent ends in later seasons as the narrative progressed.
Who was the main antagonist of Season 2?
The season featured dual antagonists. Externally, King Horrik served as a primary military and political threat to Ragnar, while King Ecbert emerged in Wessex as a long-term strategic rival. Internally, Ragnar also had to manage betrayal from within his own inner circle.
Where was Season 2 filmed?
Principal photography for the second season took place primarily on location in County Wicklow, Ireland, utilizing the rugged mountains, lakes, and coastal landscapes to stand in for medieval Scandinavia and England.
How did Season 2 change the scope of the show?
Season 2 shifted the narrative from local Viking raids to large-scale geopolitical strategy, permanent land settlements in England, and complex court intrigue, which permanently broadened the scale of the production.
