'Vikings: Valhalla': Olaf Haraldsson is now gone, but his presence will surely still be felt in Season 3
Contains spoilers for 'Vikings: Valhalla'
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: With the last season of 'Vikings: Vallhaalla' set to premiere on Netflix on Thursday, July 11, 2024, anticipation is at its peak.
The historical drama, created by Jeb Stuart, follows three main characters: Leif Erikson (Sam Corlett), Freydís Eiríksdóttir (Frida Gustavsson), and Harald Sigurdsson (Leo Suter), during a period marked by conflict between pagan and Christian beliefs.
Amid this, Olaf Haraldsson (Jóhannes Haukur Jóhannesson), Harald's half-brother and next in line to Norway's throne, is introduced as an antagonist.
However, Olaf dies in an epic showdown during the finale of season 2, leaving fans wondering about the fate of his son Magnus Olafsson (Stefán Haukur Jóhannesson).
What happened with Olaf Haraldsson in 'Vikings: Valhalla' Season 2?
In Season 2, King Sweyn Forkbeard (Søren Pilmark) spares Olaf's life and assigns him to protect his grandson, Svein Knutsson (Charlie O'Connor), the new King of Norway, while he travels to Denmark to assist King Canute (Bradley Freegard) against the Wends.
To ensure Olaf's compliance, Forkbeard also takes Olaf's son Magnus with him.
Now, Olaf's hatred towards Freydis becomes an open secret. As a devout Christian striving to unite Norway under Christianity, he views Freydis, a fervent supporter of pagan traditions, as a potential threat to his cause.
Despite this, Olaf's obsession with exacting revenge on Freydis becomes his downfall. He discovers Jorundr Torvilsson (Stanislav Callas) and manipulates him to gain entry to Jomsborg, intending to kill Freydis himself.
When Freydis and her people underestimate Jomsborg's might, they assault Olaf and his men. In a final battle, Freydis beats and impales Olaf despite his initial superiority.
Will Magnus Olafsson descend the throne in 'Vikings: Valhalla' Season 3?
Olaf's death will continue to impact throughout season 3, particularly through his son Magnus, as per King Cnut's agreement. The agreement stands, guaranteeing Magnus's survival and keeping Svein safe in Kattegat.
Unaware of Olaf's death, Harald will persist in his efforts to claim the Norwegian throne. However, he now faces additional challenges from Svein, King Cnut, and Magnus.
The series has taken creative liberties, so it remains uncertain whether Magnus will become king within its narrative. However, historically, Magnus is highly likely to ascend to the Norwegian throne.
As per historical accounts, Magnus Olafsson also known as Magnus the Good, Olaf's illegitimate son, was proclaimed king in 1035 at the age of 11.
Following the unpopular regency of Svein and Aelfgifu, they were eventually exiled. After Cnut's son Harthacnut's death, Magnus ascended to the throne of Denmark and burned Jomsborg to solidify power.
Magnus' uncle, Harald Sigurdsson, initially opposed his rule. However, Magnus later appointed Harald as co-king in 1046. Magnus died in 1047, allowing Harald to inherit Norway's throne.
How to stream 'Vikings: Valhalla'?
Since Netflix offers several packages based on your budget, you need to acquire an exclusive membership to watch the show on the streaming site.
Full HD (1080p) streaming is available with the Standard Plan with advertising, which costs $6.99 per month.
With the $15.49/month Standard Plan, you can stream in 1080p/full HD and use one account on two screens simultaneously. This plan does not include any commercials.
Fans can view 4K Ultra HD film with Dolby Atmos and HDR on up to four screens simultaneously with the $22.99/month Premium Plan.
'Vikings: Valhalla' trailer