One of my favourite sci-fi B-movie baddies has just been cast as Baldur in Amazon's God of War TV series
PC Gamer
by Issy van der Velde February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Ed Skrein has been cast as Baldur in Amazon’s *God of War* TV series, marking another high-profile role for the actor known for playing memorable villains in films like *Deadpool* and *Alita: Battle Angel*. Baldur, a key antagonist from the 2018 game, is described as a charismatic and unpredictable character with a sharp tongue. His ability to feel pain was explored in the game, seeking Kratos to help him experience emotions for the first time. Skrein’s casting is seen as a strong fit due to his past roles as villains who are physically untouchable, such as Ajax in *Deadpool*. This move adds depth to the series, which has already seen significant changes, including Ryan Hurst taking on the role of Kratos after previous portrayals by Black actors like Terrence C. Carson and Chris Judge.
The *God of War* series is undergoing a creative overhaul, with plans to remake its original Greek saga while continuing the Norse mythology storylines. Skrein’s casting aligns with this fresh approach, bringing a new dynamic to the franchise. His performance as Baldur will likely draw comparisons to his role as Zapan in *Alita: Battle Angel*, where he played a similarly arrogant and formidable character. This shift also reflects Amazon’s ambitious plans for the series, which aims to expand the lore beyond its Norse roots. Fans of the game are eager to see how Skrein’s portrayal of Baldur will impact the story, especially as Kratos continues his journey in *God of War Ragnarök* and potential future titles.
The casting decision highlights the growing influence of actors like Skrein in high-profile video game adaptations. His ability to bring nuance to complex villains makes him a standout choice for roles that require both charisma and menace. As production moves forward, the series is poised to explore uncharted territories in the *God of War* universe, potentially including conflicts with Egyptian deities. This development not only excites fans of the game but also sets the stage for fresh storytelling and character dynamics in the gaming world.
For gamers and sci-fi enthusiasts, Skrein’s casting as Baldur signifies a new era for the
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Originally published on PC Gamer on 2/26/2026