Erling Haaland is stepping away from the pitch to pursue a new creative venture. The Manchester City striker has landed his first major film role, voicing a Viking character in the upcoming animated feature ViQueens, directed by Harald Zwart. The project marks a significant move into entertainment for one of football's most recognizable athletes.
Haaland's casting feels almost inevitable given his physical presence and heritage. Standing 6'5" with distinctive blonde hair, the Norwegian international embodies the mythological warrior archetype that defines the film's aesthetic. Zwart, known for directing The Karate Kid and The Mortal Instruments, explained the logic behind the decision to The Hollywood Reporter: "As a Norwegian storyteller making a Viking adventure for a global audience, having Haaland join ViQueens feels incredibly exciting. Erling has already become a kind of real-life Viking icon around the world—powerful, fearless, and uniquely Norwegian."
A Star-Studded Cast
Haaland joins a prestigious ensemble featuring major entertainment names. Rita Ora, the British-Albanian pop star and actress, leads the film alongside Ella Purnell, playing Hedvig and Ingrid respectively—two rebellious girls who journey from Norway to China across the Silk Road. The supporting cast includes Steve Speirs as King Erik, Anton Lesser as his brother Lars, and comedian Alan Carr voicing the Bard, a royal scribe character.
The film, described as an animated adventure-comedy, explores themes of courage and discovery within a world of "fearless warrior girls, icy fjords, and Silk Road mythology." Solveig Langeland, Managing Director of Sola Media, highlighted Haaland's broader cultural significance: "Erling Haaland transcends sports—he's a global cultural figure. His involvement brings another exciting dimension to a film that already combines international adventure, humor, and emotional storytelling."
From the Pitch to the Screen
Haaland's venture into cinema reflects his massive commercial appeal and global reach. With over 40 million Instagram followers, the striker commands an audience rivaling established Hollywood figures. Produced by Karve Animation, ViQueens is currently in production with a late 2026 delivery expected.
The Manchester City forward's legendary status on the pitch strengthens his crossover appeal. He holds the Premier League single-season goals record with 36 goals in the 2022–23 season, his debut campaign at City, and remains the fastest player ever to reach 100 goals, achieving it in just 105 matches. As Haaland continues building his off-field empire, this animated role positions him alongside entertainment's biggest names while staying true to his Nordic identity and global brand.
