The towering Swede was headhunted by producers to play the role of the fabled warrior and loyal accomplice of Uhtred in the epic Viking and Saxon historical drama.
And, during an exclusive chat with Daily Star Online, he claimed the job was a dream come true as a fan of the books.
“I love everything about The Last Kingdom,” the 6ft 6ins actor said.
“I read all the Bernard Cornwell books way back in time. I think I probably read them two or three times.
“I knew everything about the story when the part was presented to me. He’s such a great writer.
“[On the show] there is lots of awesome people, both behind the camera and in front, it’s a super nice production with very gifted people.
“I like the character I’m playing as well. It’s a great combination of being a normal guy and a crazy guy.”
Despite his screen alias Clapa only being introduced during the second season – available to catch up on iPlayer now – he has proven to be a hit with viewers.
And the 1998 winner of the World’s Strongest Man explained he worked hard to bring his portrayal of the character to life.
“Every time I read a book, I have this inner movie playing in my own head,” he continued.
“So I just tried to portray him the way I pictured in my own head.
“It makes me glad to hear people have the same vision when they read it.”
Powerhouse Samuelsson was inducted into the Strongman Hall of Fame at Europe's Strongest Man this past weekend, becoming one of just six men to be given the accolade.
Catch Magnus Samuelsson as Clapa in The Last Kingdom on Thursdays 9pm on BBC Two. If you’ve missed the first couple of episodes, catch up on the series on BBC iPlayer now. For more information visit www.thelastkingdom.tv
