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Merlin

Merlin

20088
DramAksiyon & MaceraBilim Kurgu & Fantazi
Yayın tarihi
20 Eyl 2008
Ülke
Birleşik Krallık
Yapım
Shine TV
Merlin, olağanüstü büyü yeteneklerine sahip genç bir adam ile Camelot'un taç mirasçısı Prens Arthur arasında beklenmedik bir arkadaşlık.

About

Quick guide

A British fantasy drama about a young warlock and a future king in a world where magic is banned.

Set in a reimagined Camelot, the series follows Colin Morgan’s Merlin, a gifted warlock who must conceal his powers while protecting Prince Arthur from danger. Over five seasons, the two grow from a reluctant servant and bully into close allies, navigating political intrigue, mythical threats, and the evolving relationship between a king and his secret champion. The show blends medieval adventure with modern storytelling, delivering action, romance, and a touch of humor while staying true to the core of Arthurian legend.

What to know

  • Series ran five seasons (2008‑2012) with 65 episodes.
  • Each episode runs 45–50 minutes.
  • Main cast includes Colin Morgan (Merlin), Bradley James (Arthur), Katie McGrath (Morgana), and Angel Coulby (Guinevere).
  • Magic is illegal in Camelot; Merlin must hide his powers to survive.
  • The series was produced by Shine TV and filmed in Wales and France.
  • It was first broadcast on BBC One, later shown on NBC and Syfy.
  • The show won a BAFTA for visual effects in 2011.
  • Merlin is a young warlock sent to Camelot to protect the future king.

Watch if

If you enjoy myth‑based dramas that combine medieval adventure, magical action and political intrigue, Merlin offers a fresh take on Arthurian legend with engaging characters and a steadily escalating story that stays grounded in friendship and destiny.

Skip if

If you prefer light‑hearted fantasy or are sensitive to intense action scenes, the series’ darker moments and occasional violence may feel heavier than you expect.

fast pacedfantasy violencedark toneintense actionpolitical themesfamily friendlymature themes
Series Overview
Merlin, a British fantasy‑drama created by Julian Jones and colleagues, aired from 2008 to 2012. The series chronicles a 17‑year‑old warlock who, after a chance encounter with the young Prince Arthur, is sent to Camelot to protect the future king while keeping his powers hidden from an oppressive monarchy. Over five seasons, their relationship evolves from uneasy co‑habitants to loyal comrades, tackling threats that range from political conspiracies to legendary beasts.
Main Characters
Colin Morgan stars as Merlin, a talented sorcerer who must hide his magic. Bradley James plays the ambitious Prince Arthur, who eventually ascends to the throne. Katie McGrath portrays Morgana, Arthur’s ward who becomes a formidable adversary, while Angel Coulby takes on Guinevere, Arthur’s confidante. Supporting roles include Richard Wilson as the wise physician Gaius and Anthony Head as the austere King Uther.
Magic System
Merlin’s magic is born from a hereditary gift, allowing him to perform spells, control the Great Dragon, and manipulate reality. The series establishes that magic is outlawed in Camelot, so Merlin must conceal his abilities or risk execution. As the story progresses, Merlin’s powers grow, providing both strategic advantage and personal conflict.
Production and Filming
The series was produced by Shine TV in association with BBC Wales, with filming locations in Wales and France. The iconic Château de Pierrefonds served as Camelot’s exterior. Each episode runs 45–50 minutes, and the show was shot in high-definition for later series. The production team used CGI and practical effects to create the series’ dragons and mystical elements.
Broadcast History
Merlin premiered on BBC One on 20 September 2008 and concluded on 24 December 2012. In the U.S., the series first aired on NBC before moving to Syfy. It was also broadcast in over 180 countries, making it one of the BBC’s most internationally successful dramas.
Critical Reception
The show received praise for its visuals, storytelling, and character development. In 2011, it won the BAFTA for best visual effects. Critics noted the balance of action, humor, and emotional depth, though some felt the later seasons rushed its mythic narrative.
Availability
Merlin is available on streaming platforms such as BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Plex, though platform availability may vary by region. Complete series box sets are also released on DVD and Blu‑ray.

FAQ

67 Q&A
What happens to Arthur at the end of the series?
Arthur is mortally wounded in battle and is taken away by Merlin to the magical isle of Avalon to heal.
Who is Merlin's mentor in Camelot?
Gaius is Merlin's mentor in Camelot.
What is Guinevere's role in Camelot?
Guinevere starts as a servant and later becomes Queen of Camelot when she marries Arthur.
Where is Arthur taken after he dies?
Arthur is taken to the mystical isle of Avalon to be healed.
How does Arthur react when he finds out Merlin has magic?
Arthur does not learn about Merlin's magic until after he is mortally wounded in the final battle. He is taken to Avalon before he can fully react.
What is the main goal Merlin has throughout the series?
Merlin's main goal is to protect Arthur and help him unite the kingdom of Camelot, fulfilling the prophecy.
Why did Merlin have to hide his magic?
Merlin had to hide his magic because King Uther Pendragon outlawed all magic and threatened severe punishment for those who practiced it.
What is Merlin's full name?
Merlin's full name is Emrys.
What is the prophecy about Merlin and Arthur?
The prophecy states that Merlin will help the last dragon lord's son, Arthur, to become a great king and unite the land of Camelot.
Does Guinevere marry Arthur?
Yes, Guinevere marries Arthur and becomes the Queen of Camelot.
What is Arthur's destiny?
Arthur's destiny is to unite the Five Kingdoms and create a kingdom of magic and men living in peace.
Who is the first person to discover Merlin's magic?
The dragon is the first being to recognize Merlin's magic. Gaius discovers Merlin's magic early on as well.
Who is Arthur's father?
Arthur's father is King Uther Pendragon.
Will Arthur ever return?
The legend says Arthur will return when Britain needs him the most.
Where did Merlin grow up before coming to Camelot?
Merlin grew up in a village with his mother, Hunith, before coming to Camelot.
What is the relationship between Arthur and Uther?
Arthur is the son of Uther Pendragon, but their relationship is strained due to Uther's fear and hatred of magic, which Arthur does not fully understand at first.
Does Arthur become king?
Yes, Arthur becomes king of Camelot after his father, Uther, dies.
When does Arthur learn about Merlin's magic?
Arthur learns about Merlin's magic when he is dying from a wound, and Merlin takes him to Avalon.
Does Merlin ever reveal his magic to Arthur?
Merlin does not reveal his magic to Arthur during Arthur's lifetime, as he feared Arthur's reaction and Uther's laws.
What happens to Merlin after Arthur's death?
After Arthur is taken to Avalon, Merlin is left alone to watch over the land and fulfill his destiny.
Who is Arthur's main enemy?
Arthur's main enemy is usually Morgan le Fay, who seeks to overthrow him and reclaim magic.
Who are Merlin's parents?
Merlin's parents are Hunith and the Great Dragon.
Who is Arthur's mother?
Arthur's mother is Lady Igraine, though he was raised by Uther and his second wife, Morgana.
When does Arthur become king?
Arthur becomes king when he pulls the sword from the stone, signifying his right to rule.
Who is Guinevere?
Guinevere is a kind and brave woman who becomes Arthur's wife and Queen of Camelot.
What is Mordred's destiny?
Mordred's destiny is to kill King Arthur. He is a powerful sorcerer who struggles with his fate. He is torn between his love for Arthur and his destiny to bring about Camelot's downfall.
What is Gaius's role in the series?
Gaius is the court physician in Camelot. He is a wise and kind man who acts as a mentor and father figure to Merlin. He also secretly helps Merlin hide his magic and protect Arthur.
Does Morgana have magic?
Yes, Morgana has magic. She discovers her powers later in the series and struggles with them. Her magic makes her a powerful sorceress but also leads her down a dark path.
Who is the king of Camelot at the start of the series?
King Uther Pendragon is the king of Camelot at the start of the series. He is Arthur's father and has a strong hatred for magic.
Who plays Arthur?
Arthur is played by actor Bradley James.
Who plays Merlin?
Merlin is played by actor Colin Morgan.
Who is Morgana?
Morgana is King Uther's ward and Arthur's childhood friend. She is a beautiful and kind woman who later discovers she has magic. Her journey leads her to become a powerful and often antagonistic sorceress.
What does the Great Dragon tell Merlin?
The Great Dragon tells Merlin about his destiny to protect Arthur and help him unite the magical and human worlds. The dragon is an ancient and powerful creature that offers Merlin guidance and warnings.
What are the main challenges Camelot faces?
Camelot faces many challenges, including attacks from enemies, political intrigue, and the constant threat of magic being discovered. King Uther's ban on magic creates significant conflict.
What is the main conflict in the series?
The main conflict is the struggle between magic and non-magic users, personified by Merlin trying to protect Prince Arthur from those who would harm him, while hiding his own magical abilities due to King Uther's hatred of sorcery.
What is Morgana's relationship to Arthur?
Morgana is Arthur's childhood friend and later revealed to be his half-sister. Their relationship is complex, evolving from close companionship to bitter enmity.
How does magic affect Camelot?
Magic is feared and outlawed in Camelot by King Uther, leading to persecution of magical beings. Merlin's magic, however, is essential for protecting the kingdom and fulfilling Arthur's destiny.
Who is Gaius?
Gaius is the court physician of Camelot and a trusted advisor to King Uther and Prince Arthur. He is also a sorcerer in hiding and serves as a mentor and protector to Merlin.
Does Gaius know about Merlin's magic from the start?
Yes, Gaius discovers Merlin's magic very early in the series and becomes his mentor, helping him to control and conceal his powers.
Why does Morgana become evil?
Morgana becomes 'evil' due to a combination of factors, including the discovery of her magical abilities, her perceived betrayal by those she trusted, and manipulation by darker forces. She feels a deep sense of injustice and powerlessness.
What happens to Guinevere after Arthur's death?
After Arthur's death, Guinevere becomes a powerful and respected queen in her own right, ruling over a land where magic is accepted. She carries on Arthur's legacy and ensures peace.
What is Mordred's connection to Arthur and Merlin?
Mordred is a sorcerer with a complex destiny tied to Arthur. He is a threat to Arthur, destined to kill him, yet he also has a past connection with Merlin, who once saved his life.
What is the significance of the Great Dragon?
The Great Dragon is an ancient and wise creature who holds immense power. It serves as a guide and mentor to Merlin, revealing his destiny and providing crucial advice for protecting Arthur and Camelot.
Who is Mordred?
Mordred is a young sorcerer with a significant destiny. He is introduced as a friend to Arthur and Merlin but eventually becomes a key antagonist, prophesied to kill Arthur.
What is Morgana's fate?
Morgana's fate is one of continued conflict and eventual defeat. After numerous battles and schemes against Camelot, she is ultimately vanquished by Merlin.
What happens to Mordred in the end?
Mordred ultimately fulfills his destiny by mortally wounding King Arthur in battle. He is then killed by Merlin.
How does the series end for Camelot?
The series ends with the fall of Camelot after King Arthur is mortally wounded by Mordred. Arthur dies, and Merlin, heartbroken, disappears into exile, while magic is revealed to the people.
What is the Dragon's role in Merlin's life?
The Dragon is Merlin's first and most powerful magical ally. It serves as a mentor, revealing Merlin's destiny as Arthur's protector and teaching him about his own magical abilities.
Who is the Great Dragon?
The Great Dragon is an ancient, powerful, and wise magical creature. It has a deep connection to the history of magic and serves as a key source of knowledge and guidance for Merlin.
What is Camelot?
Camelot is the legendary kingdom ruled by King Arthur. It is a place of chivalry and justice, but also one where magic is feared and suppressed for much of its history.
Did the special effects improve over the seasons?
Yes, the special effects generally improved as the series progressed.
What is the meaning of 'Albion' in the series?
Albion is the ancient name for Britain, often used in the series to refer to the kingdom.
Was the show always planned to end after five seasons?
Yes, the creators intended for the series to conclude after five seasons.
Why does Merlin wear the same outfit so often?
Merlin often wears the same simple, practical outfit to blend in and hide his magic.
How many seasons of Merlin are there?
There are five seasons of Merlin.
What was the original plan for the ending of the series?
The original plan for the ending involved a more tragic conclusion where Arthur dies and Merlin leaves Camelot.
What is the significance of the 'once and future king' prophecy?
This prophecy foretells the return of King Arthur to rule again.
Who plays Morgana?
Morgana is played by Katie McGrath.
What is the relationship between Morgause and Morgana?
Morgause is Morgana's older half-sister.
Who plays Guinevere?
Guinevere is played by Angel Coulby.
Are there any deleted scenes from the series?
Yes, deleted scenes have been released on DVD and Blu-ray special features.
When did the TV series 'Merlin' first air?
The TV series 'Merlin' first aired in 2008.
Who is Nimueh?
Nimueh is a powerful sorceress and a key antagonist in the early seasons.
Who plays Uther Pendragon?
Uther Pendragon is played by Anthony Head.
What is the significance of the Lady of the Lake?
The Lady of the Lake is a magical being who aids Merlin and Arthur at crucial times.
What is the name of the actor who voices the Great Dragon?
The Great Dragon is voiced by John Hurt.
Who plays Gaius?
Gaius is played by Richard Wilson.

Oyuncular

Colin Morgan
Colin Morgan
Merlin
Angel Coulby
Angel Coulby
Gwen
Bradley James
Bradley James
Arthur Pendragon
Katie McGrath
Katie McGrath
Morgana
Richard Wilson
Richard Wilson
Gaius
John Hurt
John Hurt
Kilgharrah (voice)
Tom Hopper
Tom Hopper
Percival
Rupert Young
Rupert Young
Leon