It would most likely take some time for a lot of "Vikings" fans to get used to not seeing Ragnar Lothbrok (Travis Fimmel) in the succeeding episodes of season 4 after he was last seen getting killed in a pit of snakes. While several fans had an inkling that Ragnar will die in future episodes, the reality of the infamous Viking dying is something a lot of viewers felt badly about.

"This is the saga of Ragnar and his sons, I didn't want to suggest to the audience that the death of Ragnar meant some huge breaking point in that saga, it's just part of the weight," showrunner Michael Hirst explained in a statement. "So Ragnar's sons will continue the saga. This isn't the end of Ragnar Lothbrok, Ragnar will live on in his fame. He will live on because he was the most famous Viking of the time. But he also of course will live on through his sons. I never wanted this story to end when Ragnar dies physically," Hirst added.

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Fimmel revealed that his character is no longer coming back. "I'm not returning. It sort of doesn't make sense. My character is an atheist so I'm not going to be coming up in any ghost, religious ghostly images or anything. I think you have to be very religious for people to have that belief in you."

After Ragnar's death, reports mention that Ivar the Boneless (Alex Hogh Andersen) is taking the lead. He is believed to be ready to take on the new challenge after learning several disciplines from his father such as making the most of his weaknesses and converting them into strengths. Ivar is also expected to consider vengeance along with his brothers after his father's demise.

Meanwhile, episode 16 of the TV series, titled "Crossings," will follow Lagertha (Katheryn Winnick) in her quest to get power in Kattegat following the death of Aslaug (Alyssa Sutherland). Lagertha, according to sources, is committed to continue to prove that she is a worthy Viking leader even after she lost her husband and kingdom. Killing Aslaug in episode 14, titled "In the Uncertain Hour Before Morning," gave Lagertha the satisfaction of revenge after losing everything to her enemy.

"Vikings" season 4 episode 16 will return on Wednesday, Jan. 4, 9 p.m. EDT on the History channel.