Merlin (1998)
Sam Neill leads a star-studded cast in this Emmy-winning NBC miniseries retelling the legend of King Arthur through the eyes of its most famous wizard.
Merlin - Series Information
- Original Title: Merlin
- First Air Year: 1998
- Last Air Year: 1998
- Created by: Steve Barron
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Action, Adventure, Family
- Content Rating (US): TV-PG
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (91 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 2
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: April 26, 1998 (United States - TV-PG), April 26, 1998 (United Kingdom - PG), April 26, 1998 (Germany - 6)
- Networks: NBC
- Production Companies: NBC Studios, RHI Entertainment, Hallmark Entertainment
- Alternative Titles: Merlín y la espada de excalibur (AR), Μέρλιν, ο Μάγος (GR), Мерлін - перший лицар (UA)
Merlin - Plot
A retelling of the legend of King Arthur from the perspective of the wizard Merlin. Sam Neill stars in the title role in a story that covers not only the rise and fall of Camelot but also the phase in the legendary history of Britain that precedes it.
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Merlin - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Steve Barron
Main Cast
- Sam Neill
- Paul Curran
- Isabella Rossellini
- Jeremy Sheffield
- Lena Headey
- Martin Short
- Mark Jax
- Helena Bonham Carter
- Rutger Hauer
- Miranda Richardson
Writers
- David Stevens
- Peter Barnes
- Edward Khmara
Executive Producers
- Robert Halmi Sr.
Merlin - FAQs
Is Merlin (1998) based on a true story?
Merlin is rooted in Arthurian legend rather than documented history. The story draws from centuries of British mythology surrounding King Arthur, Camelot, and the wizard Merlin. While some historians debate a possible historical basis for Arthur, the miniseries is firmly a work of fantasy inspired by medieval literary tradition.
What role does Miranda Richardson play in Merlin?
Miranda Richardson delivers a standout dual performance as both the Lady of the Lake and the scheming Queen Mab, the primary antagonist of the miniseries. Her portrayal of Mab — a powerful fairy queen determined to preserve the old magic against the rise of Christianity — is widely considered one of the production's highlights.
Where can you stream Merlin (1998)?
Merlin (1998) is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video and Amazon Prime Video with Ads. It can also be purchased on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, and Google Play Movies. Free ad-supported viewing is available on The Roku Channel, Tubi TV, and Amazon Prime Video Free with Ads, as well as on Plex and Fawesome.
Who stars as Merlin in the 1998 miniseries?
Sam Neill takes the title role, bringing warmth and gravitas to the legendary wizard across the two-part miniseries. He is joined by Helena Bonham Carter as the villainous Morgan le Fay, Miranda Richardson as Queen Mab, Lena Headey as Guinevere, and Rutger Hauer as King Vortigern, among other notable names.
Did Merlin (1998) win any awards?
Yes — Merlin earned considerable recognition upon release. The miniseries won two Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Miniseries, and received additional nominations for its visual effects and costume design. Its blend of spectacle and storytelling made it one of the most celebrated television fantasy productions of the late 1990s.
Is Merlin (1998) suitable for children and families?
Merlin carries a TV-PG rating, making it broadly suitable for family viewing with parental guidance. The miniseries features fantasy battles, magic, and some darker thematic elements drawn from Arthurian legend, but nothing overly graphic. Its epic scope and imaginative storytelling make it an engaging watch for older children and adults alike.
How was Merlin (1998) received by critics and audiences?
The miniseries was warmly received on both sides of the Atlantic. Critics praised its impressive production values, strong ensemble cast, and ambitious scope for a television production of that era. Audiences responded enthusiastically, and its Emmy win for Outstanding Miniseries cemented its reputation as a landmark fantasy event in 1990s television.
What are similar shows to watch after Merlin (1998)?
If you enjoyed Merlin (1998), the BBC series Merlin (2008) offers a lighter, longer retelling of the same legend. The Mists of Avalon (2001) explores Arthurian myth from a female perspective, while Gormenghast (2000) delivers similarly grand British fantasy television. The Colour of Magic (2008) is another beloved Hallmark-style fantasy miniseries worth exploring.
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