Sweden's Media Maverick: Jan Stenbeck's Rise

Premiering in 2025, 'Vanguard' delves into the compelling life of Jan Stenbeck, a formidable Swedish financier. Initially living a glamorous life in New York and working for Morgan Stanley during the 1970s, Stenbeck was drawn back to Sweden by family obligations. This return presented him with a critical juncture, forcing a choice between his established American lifestyle and the potential to reshape his family's staid business into a vehicle for his visionary mobile and media aspirations.

The series, led by a dynamic performance from Jakob Oftebro as Stenbeck, captures the inherent friction arising from his return. His vision clashes with his American socialite girlfriend and his own siblings, forming the dramatic core of the five-part drama. Stenbeck's ambition extended beyond his immediate family's enterprise; he aimed to challenge and modernize Sweden itself, embodying a spirit of buccaneering entrepreneurship.

Comparisons to 'Mad Men' emerge in the early stages of 'Vanguard' due to its stylish presentation and character-driven narrative. However, as the story unfolds, the show distinguishes itself, evolving into a unique exploration of media innovation and personal ambition. The finely acted and well-dressed production offers a captivating look at a transformative figure in Swedish business history.