Paramount+ has released the first trailer and imagery for its upcoming animated series Golden Axe, adapting the iconic 1989 SEGA arcade game. The ten-episode series is set to premiere exclusively on Paramount+ on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
Mike McMahan, known for Star Trek: Lower Decks, and Joe Chandler of American Dad, have co-written the first episode and are co-creating and executive producing the series, with Chandler also serving as showrunner.
The official plot synopsis describes the series as following "legendary warriors Ax Battler, Tyris Flare and Gilius Thunderhead as they reunite to save Yuria from the evil giant Death Adder, who just won’t seem to stay dead." Their mission is further complicated by the inclusion of Hampton Squib, an "inexperienced and wildly underprepared adventurer" whose aspirations of heroism outstrip his actual abilities. The group must overcome their individual flaws to defeat Death Adder.
The series features a notable voice cast.
Matthew Rhys will voice Gilius Thunderhead, depicted as a grumpy, unhygienic battle dwarf. Danny Pudi takes on the role of Hampton Squib, a naive and eager novice adventurer. Lisa Gilroy is cast as Tyris Flare, a formidable battle sorceress known for her sharp wit. Liam McIntyre voices Ax Battler, a barbarian warrior with a strong moral code and a gentle disposition. Carl Tart will portray Chronos “Evil” Lait, a flamboyant humanoid panther character.
Golden Axe is a collaborative production between CBS’ Eye Animation Productions, Sony Pictures Television, and Original Film. SEGA's Haruki Satomi, Shuji Utsumi, and Toru Nakahara are executive producing, alongside Neal H. Moritz, Pavun Shetty, and Toby Ascher from Original Film. The animation studio is Titmouse, with Chris Prynoski, Shannon Prynoski, Antonio Canobbio, and Ben Kalina also serving as executive producers.