Full Breakdown
Erling Haaland Voices a Viking in Upcoming Animated Feature *ViQueens*
5/15/2026, 8:34:07 PM
Haaland’s Debut as a Viking Voice Star
Norwegian striker Erling Haaland will make his film debut by voicing an animated version of himself—a Viking named Haaland—in the animated adventure-comedy *ViQueens*. The film follows two rebellious Viking girls, Hedvig and Ingrid, on a cross-cultural journey from Norway toward China, set against a backdrop of “fearless warrior girls, icy fjords, and Silk Road mythology.”
From Football Pitch to Animation Studio: Director Harald Zwart’s Vision
Director Harald Zwart, known for *The Karate Kid* (2010) and *Agent Cody Banks*, is helming his first animated feature with *ViQueens*. Zwart frames Haaland’s casting as a natural extension of the striker’s public image, describing the player as a “real-life Viking icon” whose presence adds “unexpected energy and authenticity” to the story.
Key Players Behind the Project
- Erling Haaland – voice of the titular Viking.
- Harald Zwart – director and co-producer.
- Veslemøy Ruud Zwart – producer for Karve Animation.
- Sola Media – worldwide sales, led by Managing Director Solveig Langeland.
- Executive Producers – Torgeir Sanders, Robert Chandler, Peter Clausen, Andrew Williams, Rasmus Ramstad, and Solveig Langeland.
- Cast – Rita Ora (Hedvig), Ella Purnell (Ingrid), Steve Speirs (King Erik), Anton Lesser (Lars), Alan Carr (the Bard).
- Composer – Christophe Beck (original score).
Production Timeline and Release Plans
The project debuted with an exclusive teaser at the American Film Market last year and is slated for major territory pre-sales at the Cannes Film Market. *ViQueens* is currently in production, with delivery scheduled for late 2026 and a home-territory Christmas release the same year.
Numbers Highlighting the Film’s Reach
- Haaland holds the Premier League single-season record with 36 goals (2022-23).
- He reached 100 career goals in just 105 matches, the fastest in history.
- His Instagram following exceeds 40 million users, underscoring global recognizability.
Why Haaland’s Casting Matters for Global Audiences
The collaboration bridges sport and entertainment, positioning *ViQueens* to attract both animation fans and football followers. Industry observers note that Haaland’s involvement is expected to boost the film’s international visibility and broaden its market appeal, reflecting a growing trend of active athletes entering cinematic projects.
Official Statements from Creators and Distributors
Harald Zwart emphasized that Haaland’s cultural resonance aligns with the film’s Viking theme, noting that the striker’s “powerful, fearless, and uniquely Norwegian” persona enhances the narrative’s authenticity. Solveig Langeland highlighted Haaland’s status as a “global cultural figure,” asserting that his participation adds an “exciting dimension” to a story already blending adventure, humor, and emotional storytelling.
Verbatim Quotes
- “As a Norwegian storyteller making a Viking adventure for a global audience, having Erling Haaland join ViQueens feels incredibly exciting,” — Harald Zwart, Director
- “Erling has already become a kind of real-life Viking icon around the world – powerful, fearless, and uniquely Norwegian.” — Harald Zwart, Director
- “She said, “Erling Haaland transcends sports – he’s a global cultural figure.” — Solveig Langeland, Managing Director, Sola Media
- “His involvement brings another exciting dimension to a film that already combines international adventure, humor, and emotional storytelling in a way we believe will resonate with audiences everywhere.” — Solveig Langeland, Managing Director, Sola Media
Future Outlook and Market Positioning
With pre-sales efforts underway at Cannes and a delivery window set for late 2026, *ViQueens* aims to capitalize on Haaland’s worldwide fan base. The film’s blend of Nordic mythology and cross-cultural adventure positions it for broad distribution, potentially establishing a new model for athlete-driven media collaborations.
