This week's episode of "Vikings" season 4 saw a monumental death in the form of Ragnar Lothbrok being thrown in a snake pit. The show has greatly emphasized Ragnar's importance and now that he's gone, what's next for "Vikings" and its characters?

Creator Michael Hirst and actor Travis Fimmel, who plays Ragnar Lothbrok, recently sat down with The Hollywood Reporter to talk about the rest of the fourth season.

"The episodes that follow my death are fantastic," Fimmel said.

They also spoke about the possibility of Fimmel reprising his role in some form or another. And while Fimmel doesn't think that his character could come back as a ghost, Hirst thinks that Ragnar can return in a different arrangement.

"He's such a powerful presence in people's lives he could reappear in dreams, in visions," Hirst explained.

Ragnar's death surely has a tremendous aftermath in the Viking world. He has made such a huge impact on a number of people — characters and fans alike. And Hirst revealed that his passing will affect some characters in particular.

"It has a profound effect on Ecbert," Hirst told Variety. "They were so close despite being so different — they felt a kinship. I always felt the two prior episodes were part of the death, really, the two-hander with Ragnar and Ecbert."

Hirst adds that "of course it hits all the sons" as well. "Death motivates the sons, gives them a new purpose in life. It informs what happens next in the major storyline of the show," he continued.

The next episode, titled "Crossings," will see everyone trying to cope with Ragnar's death. Ivar (Alex Høgh) and his brothers will begin scheming their revenge, and everything will culminate with the Great Heathen Army. Bjorn (Alexander Ludwig) will be back to conduct a surprise attack, while Lagertha (Katheryn Winnick) will continue to consolidate power. 

"Vikings" season 4 airs Wednesdays at 9/8c on History.