Viking Ship Owner Claims Universal Studios Owes Repair Bill

The Swedish nonprofit organization that owns the Viking longship replica, Glad av Gillberga, claims Universal Studios has not paid for damages sustained by the vessel during the filming of 'The Odyssey'. The organization states the cost to repair the replica is approximately $6,000. Universal Studios reportedly grossed $264 million on the film's opening weekend, according to the nonprofit's allegations.

The Glad av Gillberga, a replica of a warship dating back to around 1040, has a history of extensive voyages, including sailing the North Sea, the Baltic, and reaching Canada over nearly three decades. The owners feel "forgotten" by the film studio, which they allege returned the ship damaged after its use in the production.

This dispute highlights potential financial disagreements between production companies and owners of specialized assets used in filmmaking. The nonprofit is seeking compensation for the repair costs, contrasting the alleged outstanding bill with the significant box office revenue generated by 'The Odyssey'.