Manchester City striker Erling Haaland will make his feature acting debut by voicing an animated Viking version of himself in the children's film Viqueens, due for release at Christmas 2026 [1, 2].
The film, directed and co-written by Norwegian-Dutch filmmaker Harald Zwart, known for The Karate Kid and Agent Cody Banks, follows two fearless Viking girls traveling from Norway to China. Along the way, they discover secrets and learn about dragon kites, fireworks, and kung fu [1].
Haaland's animated character fits the film’s world of icy fjords, warrior girls, and Silk Road mythology, providing what Zwart called "unexpected energy and authenticity". He said, "Erling has already become a kind of real-life Viking icon around the world – powerful, fearless and uniquely Norwegian [1]."
The film also stars Rita Ora and Ella Purnell as the leads Hedvig and Ingrid, with comedian Alan Carr in a smaller role as a royal scribe [1].
On the pitch, Haaland is currently leading the 2025-26 Premier League Golden Boot race with 26 goals and holds the record as the fastest player to score 100 Premier League goals [1, 2]. He joined Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund in 2022 [1].
Viqueens is scheduled for a Christmas 2026 release, offering Haaland’s fans a new way to connect with the sports star beyond football [1, 2].
