Fifth and final season of 'Merlin' to air on Syfy

NEW YORK, Dec. 14 (UPI) -- The fifth and final season of British fantasy series "Merlin" is to air on Syfy, starting next month, the U.S. cable network said Friday.

The 13-episode season is to kick off on Syfy Jan. 4 after wrapping up its run in the United Kingdom.

"As Season 5 opens, Camelot is at the height of its golden age," a synopsis said. "With Queen Guinevere and the Knights of the Round Table at his side, Arthur has never felt stronger. But even as Camelot flowers, the seeds of its destruction are being sown. As the forces of darkness gather, only Merlin stands between Arthur and a fate that has been written since the dawn of time."

Colin Morgan plays Merlin, Bradley James plays Arthur, Katie McGrath plays Morgana, Angel Coulby plays Gwen, Richard Wilson plays Gaius and John Hurt lends his voice to the Dragon.

Joining the cast this season is Alexander Vlahos as Mordred. Season 5 guest stars include Lindsay Duncan, Janet Montgomery, Liam Cunningham, Josette Simon, Sophie Rundle and Anthony Head.