Soccer Star Erling Haaland Set for Film Acting

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland is set to make his feature acting debut, lending his voice to an animated Viking warrior in the upcoming family adventure-comedy Viqueens.

The Norwegian superstar will play an animated version of himself in the film, directed and co-written by Harald Zwart.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Haaland’s character, simply named Haaland, brings a larger-than-life presence to the story. Zwart, the Dutch-Norwegian filmmaker behind hits like The Karate Kid (2010) and Agent Cody Banks, described the footballer as “powerful, fearless and uniquely Norwegian.”

He added that Haaland has become a real-life Viking icon worldwide, making him the perfect fit for the project. “Bringing him into this universe as himself gives the film an unexpected energy and authenticity that felt completely right for this story,” Zwart said.

The film follows two courageous Viking girls, Hedvig and Ingrid, who embark on an epic journey from Norway to China to return a stowaway.

Along the way, they discover ancient secrets, master dragon kites and fireworks, learn kung fu, and realise that the gifts of friendship outweigh any treasures taken from adversaries.

The adventure blends icy fjords, Byzantine intrigue, and the fabled Silk Road with Viking grit and Chinese wisdom, creating a high-energy mix of comedy, action, and cultural discovery.

Zwart has assembled an impressive voice cast. British actress Ella Purnell (Yellowjackets, Arcane) voices Ingrid, while singer Rita Ora takes on the role of Hedvig.

Comedian Alan Carr appears in a supporting part as a lyrically challenged royal scribe. Additional cast members include Steve Speirs as King Erik and Anton Lesser as the scheming brother Lars.

Haaland, who joined Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund in 2022, continues to dominate on the pitch.

In the 2025-26 Premier League season, the 25-year-old Norwegian international leads the Golden Boot race with 26 goals so far, further cementing his status as one of world football’s most formidable talents.

His larger-than-life persona and global appeal make the transition to animation a natural and exciting step.

For Norwegian audiences, the project carries extra cultural resonance. Zwart, a fellow countryman, is crafting a modern Viking tale that celebrates heritage while reaching international viewers.

Viqueens is scheduled for release around Christmas 2026, positioning it as a festive family blockbuster.