King & Conqueror

Synopsis

The story of a clash that defined the future of a country and a continent for a thousand years. Harold of Wessex and William of Normandy were two men destined to meet at the Battle of Hastings in 1066. These two former allies with no design on the British throne found themselves forced by circumstance and personal obsession into a war for possession of its crown.

First Air Date: 2025-08-24

Last Air Date: 2025-10-05

Number of Seasons: 1

Number of Episodes: 8

Created By: Michael Robert Johnson

Networks: BBC One

View Technical Specifications on IMDb

Top Cast

James Norton as Harold Godwinson
Nikolaj Coster-Waldau as William of Normandy
Emily Beecham as Edith Swanneck
Clémence Poésy as Matilda of Normandy
Jason Forbes as Thane Thomas
Léo Legrand as Odo of Bayeux
Indy Lewis as Margaret
Geoff Bell as Godwin
Clare Holman as Gytha
Ingvar E. Sigurðsson as Fitzosbern

Seasons

Series 1 (2025)

A clash that defined the future of a country – and a continent – for a thousand years.

Episodes:

Ep. 1: Invitation (2025-08-24)

Harold of Wessex warns his father, Earl Godwin, of a rival's treachery – but he is ignored.
Ep. 2: The Sins of the Father (2025-08-25)

Threatened by those in power in France and England, William and Harold each face grave danger, their families in peril. Refuge in Flanders offers hope for new mother Matilda, while vengeful Lady Emma hounds the Godwins.
Ep. 3: Brothers (2025-08-31)

Harold risks returning to Wessex for his wife, while William plots against Henry in France as home truths compromise family ties.
Ep. 4: So Be It (2025-09-07)

Crowned heads are endangered as Harold fights for his family's rights and William tracks his royal foe.
Ep. 5: The Beast in the Mirror (2025-09-14)

Harold and Edith risk their lives to bargain with William but get a guarded reception. Harold's siblings face hardships trying to secure their family's future.
Ep. 6: Damage (2025-09-21)

Ambition drives William and Harold to each seek costly alliances, against the advice of their womenfolk, to enhance their chances of winning the crown.
Ep. 7: Cost of War (2025-09-28)

Sacrifices have to be made when Harold strikes against a Viking invader, and William seeks a fleet. Edith fears for the future, while Matilda moves to secure hers.
Ep. 8: The Hand of God (2025-10-05)

Harold’s depleted English forces rush to meet William's assault on the south coast. The resulting brutal battle's outcome is unpredictable.