She first gained widespread international fame for her role as Lagertha, the fierce shieldmaiden and legendary Viking warrior, in the hit historical drama series Vikings (2013–2020). Her portrayal of Lagertha earned her critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, including those from the Canadian Screen Awards and Critics’ Choice Television Awards. Winnick’s performance stood out for its emotional depth, physical strength, and the way she brought to life a powerful female leader — both compassionate and fearless. Lagertha became one of the most iconic and beloved characters in the series, symbolizing empowerment and resilience.
After Vikings, Winnick took on a leading role in the ABC crime drama series Big Sky (2020–2023), where she played Jenny Hoyt, a former cop turned private investigator. Her character is tough, determined, and unafraid to take risks — a perfect match for Winnick’s commanding screen presence. Through Jenny, she showcased a different side of her acting range, blending action with emotional storytelling and complex character development.
Beyond acting, Katheryn Winnick has also ventured into directing and producing, further expanding her creative footprint in the entertainment industry. She’s a martial artist, holding black belts in Taekwondo and Karate, which has contributed to her ability to perform her own stunts and portray physically demanding roles authentically.
Overall, Katheryn Winnick is admired not only for her acting talent but also for her strength, versatility, and commitment to portraying powerful, independent female characters on screen.
