Bishop Erkenwald

Bishop Erkenwald stands at Alfred's right hand as a keeper of Christian order, suspicious of anything that smells of the old gods. He watches Uhtred with open distaste, quick to question his loyalty and his soul alike. Pious, humorless, and certain of his own righteousness, he treats faith as a matter of discipline, not comfort.

Kevin Eldon, better known for comedy, plays him with total conviction, which is exactly what makes the character land — no wink, no softness, just a churchman who genuinely believes doubt is dangerous. He's a useful irritant in Alfred's court, embodying the rigid faith the show's pagan hero keeps chafing against.