Nikolaj Coster-Waldau 'Knocked Out' During Intense Fight Scene for BBC's 'King & Conqueror' – Plus, His Directorial Debut!
Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, best known for his role as Jaime Lannister in Game of Thrones, has revealed a surprising incident that occurred during filming for the upcoming BBC historical drama, King & Conqueror. The actor, who is also making his directorial debut with the series, experienced a momentary blackout while filming a particularly demanding fight scene.
“It was a very intense scene, a lot of choreography, a lot of impact,” Coster-Waldau told The Mirror. “I got knocked out. Just for a second, but I did. The crew were amazing, they caught me immediately. It was a bit embarrassing, but also a testament to how realistic we were trying to be.”
King & Conqueror is a sweeping historical saga set in 11th-century Britain, following the tumultuous reign of King Canute and his attempts to unite England, Denmark, and Norway into a single North Sea empire. The series promises a gritty and authentic portrayal of the era, with a focus on the political intrigue, brutal warfare, and complex relationships that defined the time.
Coster-Waldau’s involvement extends beyond his acting role. He's stepping into the director's chair for a couple of episodes, marking a significant milestone in his career. “Directing has been a dream of mine for a long time,” he explained. “It’s a completely different perspective, seeing the project from behind the camera. It's incredibly rewarding to shape the story in a new way and collaborate with the entire crew to bring it to life.”
The actor shared that the experience has been both challenging and exhilarating, allowing him to explore his creative vision and contribute to the series in a more profound way. He praised the BBC for taking a chance on him and providing a supportive environment for his directorial debut.
The incident during the fight scene, while initially alarming, has become a memorable anecdote from the production. It underscores the dedication and commitment of the cast and crew to creating a believable and immersive historical drama. Viewers can expect a visually stunning and emotionally gripping series when King & Conqueror premieres on BBC One later this year.
With a stellar cast, a compelling storyline, and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau's directorial touch, King & Conqueror is poised to be one of the most talked-about historical dramas of the year. The series aims to capture the raw energy and political complexities of 11th-century Britain, offering a fresh perspective on a pivotal period in history.