History Picks Up ‘Vikings’ for Season Five

History has picked-up a fifth season of scripted drama “Vikings” from MGM Television, with an order for 20 new episodes. Jonathan Rhys Meyers (“The Tudors”) will join the show, and production on the upcoming fifth season will begin this summer.

Debuting on March 3, 2013, “Vikings” follows the exploits of the legendary Viking chieftain Ragnar Lothbrok (Travis Fimmel) and his crew and family. The renewal will increase the episode tally of “Vikings” to 69.

“‘Vikings’ continues to be a powerhouse series worldwide, bolstered by the ongoing support from History and the direction of our first-class creative team, led by Michael Hirst, and partners World 2000 and Take 5 Productions,” said Mark Burnett, President, Television and Digital Group, MGM and Steve Stark, President, Television Development and Production, MGM. “We are excited to have Jonathan Rhys Meyers join our talented cast and watch as this epic story evolves heading into season five.”