The Last Kingdom may chronicle the life of Uhtred and the battles he has won, but this doesn't mean that the viewers haven't been drawn to any of the other characters. For many fans, they have particularly been drawn to the female characters of the show as the writers have produced some empowering and compelling narratives that stop them from turning into one-dimensional beings.
Whether it is as an ally of Uhtred's, a villain, a headstrong queen, or one of the show's smartest leaders, The Last Kingdom writers have done their best to make sure that each female character stands out for their own merits. But which one is the best? While all the women have made a huge impact on the story, some have been more memorable than others.
Ælflæd
Although Ælflæd hasn't had as much screen time as the other characters, she's still proven to be one of the most annoying antagonists. Paired with her father, it appears that Ælflæd is determined to do whatever it takes to make sure that she remains the anointed queen of Wessex (including poisoning the king's mother, Ælswith). While it looks like their plans did fail in the season 4 finale, fans predict they'll step up their game in season 5.
Portrayed by Amelia Clarkson, many fans will agree that the actor has done a brilliant job in capturing Ælflæd's spoilt and childish behavior. Whether it's through the delivery of her whiny complaints, how she walks with an arrogant gait, or looks at everyone with a stone-cold expression, Clarkson has done well to create such an unlovable villain.
Iseult
Iseult (Charlie Murphy) might have only appeared in 3 episodes, but she still proved to be quite an iconic character due to her compassionate and kind nature. Although she faced a lot of discrimination from the Anglo-Saxons for her seer powers and magic abilities, Iseult was still willing to provide medical assistance because she hated seeing anyone suffering.
She also played a significant role in the overall story too as she managed to save Edward from a deadly illness while also making Uhtred aware of his destiny. While it's been many years since her death, fans would love it both men spoke about her a lot more since she helped shape them into the people they are today.
Gisela
Gisela (Peri Baumeister) might have only been seen as another love interest of Uhtred's, but, as time went on, she became so much more than that. Similar to Uhtred, what drew the viewers to Dane was the fact that she was so carefree and refused to conform to society's expectations.
She might not have participated in any battles, but Gisela did play an important part in the story. Her relationship with Uhtred not only allowed the viewers to see a softer and more mature side to the Dane Slayer, but she was also key in helping to keep the peace between Uhtred and Alfred (as her rationality made them both think before they acted). Without her wise words and political insights, it's likely their kingdoms would have collapsed since Uhtred had been quite a hot-head.
Stiorra
Stiorra (Ruby Hartley) is another character the viewers grew to love in season 4. Not only has she proven to be extremely intelligent but her courage in the face of adversity has impressed fans greatly (especially since she has gone head-to-head with some powerful villains).
With her now living with Sigtrygrr in Eoferwic and finally getting the chance to explore the world, the Last Kingdom's viewers are excited to see what storylines are in store for Stiorra in season 5. Given that Stiorra had expressed that she was skilled with a sword, there is a possibility that she could become just as great of a fighter as her father, Uhtred.
Thyra
While fans have seen a lot of characters come and go on The Last Kingdom, it was a sad day for all when they had to say goodbye to Thyra (Julia Bache-Wiig). First seen in season 1, Thyra won the hearts of fans due to her peaceful nature and wise insights. Unlike her brothers, Ragnar and Uhtred, she didn't see the point in all the fighting and preferred to live a happy life away from it all.
However, it was her relationship with Beocca that piqued the viewers' interest the most since her influence had helped the Saxon priest to become a lot more open-minded to the Dane culture (and encouraged him to help Uhtred unite the two groups together). It's just a shame that she isn't alive to see it happen because this peace is all she ever wanted.
Eadith
Although she has only appeared in 10 episodes, fans have been extremely impressed with Eadith so far since she has proven to be quite a selfless and altruistic person. She risked her life several times to help Uhtred protect their friends and loved ones, while also putting her own happiness on hold to make sure that she makes amends for her family's crimes.
Now that Uhtred and Finan named her an honorary member of their group, many fans are excited to see what new dynamics this could create and how it'll affect Eadith's character arc. With the viewers only seeing a brief glimpse of her fighting and espionage skills, it would be great if the writers continue to show this in season 5 and how she has become an important asset for them.
Ælswith
Although Ælswith (Eliza Butterworth) isn't the most likable character in The Last Kingdom, many fans will agree that the show wouldn't be the same without her as she has created a lot of drama.
For years, Ælswith has had the viewers screaming at their TVs in frustration. Not only did her prejudices, controlling mannerisms, and sneering insults grate on everyone's nerves, but she was also responsible for the many challenges Uhtred had to face. The fact that some fans have even said she was just as irritating as Game of Thrones' Joffrey proves that Butterworth has done an excellent job in capturing her villainous essence.
Æthelflæd
In the last three seasons, Æthelflaed's (Millie Brady) rise to succession and character development has kept the viewers drawn to their TVs. Although many people would say that Uhtred is the bravest character in The Last Kingdom, Æthelflæd could easily challenge him for the title as she has participated in just as many battles and faced off against many strong enemies.
The viewers can see why Æthelflæd had also earned Uhtred's loyalty too as her courageous spirit and devotion to the people shows that she is quite a caring and compassionate person. Now that she is Queen of Mercia, many fans are excited to see if her kingdom will continue to flourish and if Æthelflæd becomes an even greater leader.
Brida
Out of all the characters on The Last Kingdom, Brida (Emily Cox) has had one of the best and most complex arcs on the show. From being a strong and fierce warrior to a bloodthirsty villain, fans have found it quite interesting to watch Brida's descent into darkness as she becomes more consumed by her anger and pain.
What has also made her quite compelling is how the writers have made sure that she isn't a stereotypical one-dimensional villain. They have taken the time to explore Brida's backstory in-depth, showing the audience the reasons why she acts the way she does and how she and Uhtred are alike (in more ways than one). With her set to be the antagonist in season 5, it will be interesting to see if Brida finally embraces her dark side.
Hild
While Hild (Eva Birthistle) might not be as involved in the action as the other characters on the show, that hasn't stopped her from becoming a fan-favorite character. Whether it is because of her endearing friendship with Uhtred, her strong morality, or her no-nonsense attitude, Hild has given fans plenty of iconic moments.
Thanks to Birthistle chemistry with Alexander Dreymon (Uhtred) and Mark Rowley (Finan), she has also provided a lot of comic relief for the viewers too as fans can't help but chuckle at some of the conversations they have. Now that Father Beocca has died, it would be great if Hild could take his place as Uhtred's moral compass and help keep him grounded.