Netflix has once again thrilled fans with the release of a captivating new trailer—this time for a documentary that spotlights the incredible journey of actress Katheryn Winnick. Known worldwide for her unforgettable portrayal of Lagertha in Vikings, Winnick has long been a fan-favorite. Now, Netflix is giving audiences a deeper look into the woman behind the warrior with a feature-length documentary that traces her path from a Canadian martial arts prodigy to an international screen icon.
The trailer opens with a montage of childhood photos and home videos, paired with Katheryn’s own voiceover reflecting on her earliest dreams. Viewers quickly realize that this is no ordinary celebrity doc. The film promises to go beyond Hollywood glitz to uncover the resilience, discipline, and deeply personal challenges that shaped Winnick’s life and career.
Directed by Emmy-nominated filmmaker Ava Marks, the documentary—titled Katheryn Winnick: Shield and Soul—explores her Ukrainian roots, her upbringing in Toronto, and the formative role martial arts played in her evolution. The trailer teases exclusive footage from her early black belt tests, giving fans a rare glimpse at a side of Winnick that predates her fame.
Netflix’s preview also showcases behind-the-scenes moments from the sets of Bones, Vikings, Big Sky, and more. Castmates and collaborators—including Travis Fimmel and Clive Standen—make appearances, offering intimate commentary on Winnick’s work ethic, leadership, and unshakable spirit.
One standout moment in the trailer is a clip of Katheryn during filming in freezing Icelandic weather, refusing to take a break between takes. A crew member is heard saying, “She’s tougher than any of us.” That grit, combined with her elegance and vulnerability, seems to be at the heart of the documentary’s narrative.
The film doesn’t shy away from the darker chapters either. Netflix hints at personal losses and industry challenges that Katheryn faced along the way. As the trailer crescendos with sweeping orchestral music, Katheryn is heard saying, “You don’t have to be perfect to be powerful. You just have to keep showing up.”
Fans of Vikings will be thrilled to see exclusive table reads, costume fittings, and even never-before-seen rehearsal footage from the early seasons. Yet the documentary is careful to position Katheryn’s story as much more than just Lagertha. It’s about identity, transformation, and what it means to lead with authenticity.
Social media exploded moments after the trailer dropped. Within an hour, hashtags like #KatherynWinnickDoc and #ShieldAndSoul were trending globally on X (formerly Twitter). Fans and fellow actors praised the trailer’s emotional tone and empowering message, with many calling it “long overdue.”
In a recent press statement, Katheryn shared, “This documentary is the most vulnerable I’ve ever been. It’s not just about my career—it’s about where I come from, who I am, and the battles I’ve fought behind the scenes.” Her words reflect the depth and honesty viewers can expect from the full feature.
Netflix has slated Katheryn Winnick: Shield and Soul for release on September 27, 2025. The platform is banking on it being one of their major documentary hits this fall, targeting fans of both celebrity biopics and powerful female narratives.
With the trailer now available to stream, anticipation is building. Whether you’re a die-hard Vikings fan or someone discovering Winnick for the first time, this documentary promises to be an emotional, inspiring, and visually stunning ride.
From black belt to Hollywood royalty, Shield and Soul is a tribute to a woman who fought her way to the top—without ever losing herself. Be sure to mark your calendar for what could be Netflix’s most empowering release of the year.
