By Stig Editor 
Netflix Just Released a Shocking Docuseries on Travis Fimmel — The Viking Star’s Real Life Is Wilder Than His Most Famous Role
If you thought Vikings was intense, wait till you see what Netflix just revealed about the man behind Ragnar Lothbrok.
Travis Fimmel has always been a bit of a mystery rugged, private, unpredictable. But now, Netflix’s latest docuseries is pulling back the curtain, and fans are shocked by what they’re seeing.
From Farm Life to Fame: The Untold Story
Before becoming a global icon, Travis was just a farm boy from Echuca, Australia. He had dreams of becoming a pro football player but life had other plans.
After a career-ending injury, Travis turned to modeling (yes, that Calvin Klein underwear ad). But what really changed his life? Acting. And one role in particular: Ragnar Lothbrok.
The Viking Who Never Turned Off the Role
In Vikings, Fimmel didn’t just play Ragnar he became him. The docuseries dives into how Travis refused to use stunt doubles, challenged directors, and reworked entire scenes to stay true to the Viking spirit.
> “It was like he stepped out of the past. You didn’t direct him you just watched him become Ragnar,” a castmate reveals in the doc.
And it worked. Travis made Ragnar a global phenomenon but at a huge personal cost.
Why He Vanished After Vikings
After his character’s shocking exit, fans expected Travis to leap into Hollywood blockbusters. Instead, he all but disappeared.
The Netflix doc reveals why:
He walked away from major roles
He turned down press tours and awards shows
He moved off-grid and focused on low-budget passion projects
One insider says, “Fame freaked him out. He didn’t want to play the game.”
Never-Before-Seen Footage & Secrets
The series includes rare behind-the-scenes clips, old auditions, and even a mysterious canceled film Travis starred in that never aired until now.
It also explores his battles with anxiety, the pressure of overnight fame, and why he rejected a Marvel offer most actors would kill for.
Social Media Is Freaking Out
> “This is the realest thing I’ve seen on Netflix in a long time. I respect Travis even more now.” — @TVGeekCentral
“I thought he was just acting crazy on Vikings. Nope. That’s HIM.” — @NetflixFanatic22