Is Heahmund from Vikings real?
Heahmund has made quite an impression since showing up in Vikings. Not only has he changed sides but he also ended up bedding widowed Queen Lagertha (played by Katheryn Winnick).
The dogmatic character depicted in the History show is fictional but he is based on a real-life Christian priest called Heahmund, who was indeed the Bishop of Sherborne.
The real Heahmund’s consecration took place between 867 and 868, according to the American network’s official website.
It also seems fair to say that the real Heahmund was something of a warrior himself.
The bishop fought against the Viking invasion and according to historical records he stood beside King Aethelred and Prince Alfred of Wessex in battle – similar to the start of season five.
He died in 871 at the Battle of Marton while it is believed he was battling King Halfdan Ragnarsson.
Sadly for fans of Lagertha and Heahmund, there’s said to be very little evidence to suggest that the pair even met in reality.
Similarly, while the real Heahmund and Ivar the Boneless (Alex Høgh Andersen) did live at the same time, they’re not thought to have met.
Despite not following history closely, it looks like Meyers’ version of the bishop will be sticking around for a while yet.
“Because Jonathan Rhys Meyers has such an explosive performance in this role, it is likely that he has been given more opportunity to shine than the real Heahmund would have had in the history books,” states the History site.
Creator Michael Hirst said of his incarnation of Heahmund: “I needed a new character in the show, who could at least inspire some hope in these dismal times and when all the Saxon forces splintered and [were] incapable of responding to the Great Heathen Army.
“So here we have this rather glamorous knight, this warrior bishop as a possible redeeming feature for the Saxons and for England.”
When will Vikings season 5, episode 11 be released?
Vikings wrapped up the first half of season five on January 24 with Moments of Vision.
US network History has yet to announce a return date for season five, which could be as early as the end of 2018.
Previously, season four was broadcast in April 2016 and the show was back on screens in November of that year.
When the show does come back, viewers can watch the concluding 10 episodes of the run.
As per usual, UK fans will be able to watch the new episode on Amazon Prime 24 hours its US premiere.
Despite no firm release date, fans were treated to a teaser from episode 11 which could be a game-changer for the show.
Vikings season 5 is expected to return later in 2018.
