“The Winter King” penned by Bernard Cornwell, the same author behind “The Last Kingdom.” The TV series isn’t just another historical fiction; it’s a tale that breathes life into legendary characters that many viewers will recognize. This adaptation offers a fresh perspective on the Arthurian legend, grounding it in historical reality rather than fantasy. Characters like King Arthur, Merlin, Guinevere, Uthred, and Owain are portrayed in a historical epic, not a mythical one. The “The Winter King” cast blends seasoned actors with fresh talent, creating a dramatic and novel rendition of timeless characters. Below is the cast list and character guide of “The Winter King,” check it out!
The Winter King Cast List
- Iain De Caestecker plays King Arthur
- Stuart Campell plays Derfel
- Eddie Marsan plays Uther – King of Dumnonia
- Ellie James plays Nimue – Lady of the Lake
- Nathaniel Martello-White plays Merlin
- Olumide Olorunfemi plays Lunete
- Daniel Ings plays Owain
- Tatjana Nardone plays Ladwys
- Steven Elder plays Bedwin
- Simon Merrells plays Gundleus – the king of Siluria
- Ken Nwosu plays Sagramor
- Matt Mella plays Lanval
- Billy Postlethwaite plays Cadwys
- Valene Kane plays Morgan
- Jordan Alexandra plays Guinevere
- Andrew Gower plays Sansum
- Aneirin Hughes plays Gorfydd
- Emily John plays Princess Ceinwyn
‘The Winter King’ Character Guide
Iain De Caestecker plays King Arthur
Forget the traditional tales of King Arthur, like the sword in the stone or the knights of the Round Table. In this version, Arthur Pendragon is Uther Pendragon’s son, ruling over Dumnonia. His illegitimate birth led to his exile, but as the story unfolds, he emerges as a warlord, ready to reclaim his land.
Who plays King Arthur? Born on December 29, 1987, Iain De Caestecker is a Scottish actor, celebrated for roles like Agent Leo Fitz in “Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.” and leading parts in the BAFTA-winning “The Fades” and “Young James Herriot.”
Jordan Alexandra as Guinevere
In “The Winter King,” Guinevere is Arthur’s spouse, depicted in a complex light that balances between evil and noble. Driven by ambition for power and status, she’s indifferent to the consequences of her actions on others.
Who plays Guinevere? Jordan Alexander, born on July 27, 1993, is a Canadian actress and singer, known for roles like Elsie/Maya in “Sacred Lies: The Singing Bones” and Julien Calloway in HBO Max’s “Gossip Girl.”
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Stuart Campbell as Derfel Cadarn
Derfel might not be as renowned as Arthur or Merlin, but he’s a historical figure from Britain, often portrayed as a Christian monk and one of the few survivors of Arthur’s last battle. In “The Winter King,” Derfel narrates the story, serving as one of Arthur’s warriors, believing in Arthur’s potential to unify Britain despite his imperfections.
Who plays Derfel? Stuart Campbell, born on October 17, 1998, in Bellshill, United Kingdom, is a Scottish-British actor known for his work in “Baptiste,” “Hetty Feather,” and “London Kills.”
Eddie Marsan plays Uther Pendragon
Uther Pendragon, Arthur’s father in both legend and “The Winter King,” is depicted as an old battle-hardened king of Dumnonia, respected by nearly everyone at court. In this adaptation, Arthur is Uther’s illegitimate son, adding a layer of complexity to the character.
Who plays Uther? Edward Maurice Charles Marsan, born on June 9, 1968, is an English actor with a rich career. Married to make-up artist Janine Schneider since 2002 and father to four children, Marsan’s roles include Soly Malinovsky in “Ridley Road,” John Darwin in “The Thief, His Wife, and the Canoe,” and Mitch Winehouse in the Amy Winehouse biopic “Back to Black.”
Nathanial Martello-White plays Merlin
Merlin, a name that resonates with magic and wizardry across the globe, is a character that needs no introduction. But what’s the approach of “The Winter King” to this historical figure? In this show, Merlin is portrayed not just as a wizard but as a political figure, standing up against Uther Pendragon’s authority. His resistance is fueled by a profound faith in his Gods.
Who plays Merlin? Nathaniel Martello-White, a British actor and writer born in January 1983, is stepping into the role. He’s recognized for his performances in TV series like “Guerrilla” and “One Dollar,” and is part of new projects like “I Hate Suzie” and “Small Axe,” which narrates the story of England’s Black community.
Ellie James plays Nimue – Lady of the Lake
In Arthurian legend, Nimue, also known as the Lady of the Lake, is often depicted as a fairy. Her portrayal varies, sometimes aiding Arthur with Excalibur or guiding him to Avalon, and sometimes entrapping Merlin to kill him. In “The Winter King,” she’s no fairy, as they didn’t exist in pre-Roman Britain. Instead, she’s a priestess, receiving visions and powers from the Gods, with Merlin attending to her.
Who plays Nimue? Ellie James, an English actor with roles in films like “The Lost Daughter,” “I May Destroy You,” and “I Am,” is bringing this character to life.
Simon Merrells plays Gundleus
Gundleus, the king of the rival kingdom, Siluria, is a character filled with brutality. His ruthless rule knows no bounds, and he’s ready to annihilate anything in his way.
Who plays Gundleus? Simon Merrells, born on July 14, 1965, is an English actor known for roles like Marcus Licinius Crassus in “Spartacus: War of the Damned.” He’s also starred in films like “Index Zero,” “Billionaire Ransom,” and “Victrix,” and played Tancrede de Hautville in the History Channel’s “Knightfall.”
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Valene Kane Plays Morgan
Morgan le Fay, often portrayed as Arthur’s sister and sometimes a witch has a complex character in Arthurian legend. She’s been both a protector and a villain. “The Winter King” might choose a side for her. Morgan, one of Uther’s illegitimate children and Merlin’s student is unfortunately also a pagan.
Who’s plays Morgan? Valene Kane, a renowned Northern Irish actress, was born on January 30, 1987. She’s famous for roles in “The Fall” and the 2018 thriller “Profile.”
Daniel Ings as Owain, the Warrior
Owain, a seasoned warrior serving Uther in Dumnonia, doesn’t always embody the knight’s valor.
Who plays Owain? Daniel Ings is an English actor born on November 30, 1985, and is known for roles in “The Crown,” “Eddie the Eagle,” and the British sitcom “The Eagle.”
Andrew Gower plays Sansum
Sansum is described as Bishop Bedwin’s fanatical novice who holds great sway over the Christians of Britain.
Who’s playing Sansum? Andrew Gower, born on November 8, 1989, is an English actor recognized for roles in “Being Human” and “Outlander.” He also produced his first short film, “Humpty Fu*king Dumpty,” a deep dive into the life of musician Tommy Quickly, portrayed by Gower himself and directed by Stephen Walters.
