Alexander Ludwig Films 'Billings' at Houston Rodeo

Alexander Ludwig Takes Over the Houston Rodeo to Film Personal New Thriller 'Billings'

The 'Vikings' star is writing, directing, and starring in a gritty drama inspired by his family’s real-life battles with the healthcare system.

Sofia Chen

Mar 19, 2026, 10:05 PM PT · 2 min read

Alexander Ludwig — Photo: Zach Catanzareti Photo / CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

THE RUNDOWN

Alexander Ludwig is writing, directing, and starring in the new film Billings.
The production is currently filming on-site at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
The plot focuses on a bull rider robbing pharmacies to pay for medical care.
The story is inspired by Ludwig’s sister Sophia’s battle with cystic fibrosis.
His wife, Lauren Ludwig, is serving as a producer on the project.

Alexander Ludwig is trading Norse shields for rodeo spurs. The Vikings and Heels actor was at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, in March 2024 filming his upcoming movie, Billings. This project marks a major milestone for Ludwig, who serves as the writer, director, and lead actor. Production took advantage of the massive crowds at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo to capture authentic footage for the film.

The film follows the story of a former bull rider who turns to robbing pharmacies to fund his sister’s treatment for cystic fibrosis after her health insurance is dropped. According to a report by the Houston Chronicle, the plot hits close to home for Ludwig. His real-life sister, Sophia Ludwig, lives with the condition. Ludwig told the publication that the story reflects his family’s personal experiences navigating the American healthcare system.

Philip Nelson Alexander Ludwig — Photo: Philip Nelson from San Antonio, TX, USA / CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Ludwig is not the only family member on set, as his wife, Lauren Ludwig, is also a producer on the project. The actor expressed his gratitude to the city of Houston and the rodeo organizers for their cooperation during the high-energy shoot. The production cycle for Billings began in 2024, with filming continuing throughout that spring.