English-language series created and directed by Amir Chamdin will depict the rise to fame of the Swedish sports champion of Sami origin.

Johanna Wennerberg of Warner Bros. ITVP Sweden is producing for Nent Group’s streamer Viaplay.

The TV series written by Agent Hamilton’s Martin Bengtsson will depict how in the 1970s, Salming was one of the first European hockey players to cross the Atlantic to join the prestigious National Hockey League (NHL).

Filippa Wallestam, NENT Group Chief Content Officer said: “Börje Salming’s sporting achievements rank with fellow Swedish superstars Björn Borg and Ronnie Peterson. Today, when 10% of NHL players come from Sweden, it’s easy to forget that Europeans were once thought too weak for this unforgiving competition. This is a story of remarkable talent, athleticism and perseverance that deserves an international streaming audience. On his 70th birthday, we hope this launch is a fitting homage to the man known simply as ‘The King’.”

Valter Skarsgård (Katla, Black Lake) who has started training with Salming said about the former Toronto Maple Leafs’ defenseman: “His attitude was always to do things his way and enjoy it, and I’ll try to bring the same approach to the task of playing him.”

Salming said: “It’s flattering and exciting that my story will become a series. When we began discussing this project, I reflected over everything that’s happened in my life, from taking care of myself at a young age after my father passed away, to the journey from Kiruna to the NHL, and I realised there’s a lot of screen potential there. It will be really exciting to see the show when it’s ready.”

The serialised biopic is due to start filming in 2022. No date has yet been confirmed for the premiere on the Nordic streamer Viaplay.