‘In Our First Encounter, I Asked If He Was Gandalf’: Season 2 of ‘The Rings of Power’ Reveals the True Identity of The Stranger

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The initial 16 episodes of the acclaimed Prime Video series are now streaming on the platform.

The Season 2 Finale of Rings of Power Unveils Major Revelations

The conclusion of Season 2 of Rings of Power not only ties up various storylines that kept fans on the edge of their seats but also answers one of the series’ most frequently asked questions: Who is the enigmatic ‘Stranger’? The final episode, titled Shadow and Flame (02×08), sheds light on his true identity, linking him directly to the beloved trilogy of The Lord of the Rings and putting to rest an ongoing debate about the character.

A Pivotal Encounter and a New Name

During a critical confrontation, the Stranger uses his powers to shield the Harfoots from the Dark Wizard (portrayed by Ciarán Hinds). One of the Harfoots affectionately dubs him “Grand Elf,” a name that quickly resonates among them. The significance of these two words escalates as the Stranger reflects upon it and adopts the name “Gandalf,” the most iconic wizard in J.R.R. Tolkien’s universe. However, it’s essential to note that this interpretation of his arrival in Middle-earth deviates from Tolkien’s original works: Gandalf is meant to appear in the Third Age, not the Second, as suggested by the Prime Video narrative.

Foreshadowing and Identity Connections

Further evidence pointing to Daniel Weyman’s character as Gandalf arises during an exchange with the Dark Wizard. He references their past, indicating a familial bond: “Once, we were five. But it was you who urged me to leave the far west and come to this world, knowing we couldn’t defeat Sauron without help.” This could potentially refer to the five Maiar sent to Middle-earth to liberate it from Sauron’s sinister plans (played by Charlie Vickers).

Upon discovering Gandalf’s legendary staff, Tom Bombadil (Rory Kinnear) remarks, “A wizard does not find his staff; it finds him. Just like a name.” Moments later, the Stranger recalls the name Gandalf. Patrick McKay, the showrunner, revealed to Entertainment Weekly that this character plays a crucial role in the Stranger’s development: “If you approach him and simply hang out, if you wait long enough, Tom will share the universe’s secrets.”

Speculations from the Cast About the Stranger’s Identity

Markella Kavenaugh, known for her role as Nori, has shared that she suspected the Stranger’s true identity during her first audition. She remarked, “In our initial read-through, I asked whether the Stranger was Gandalf.” Though she felt it was a bold inquiry, Weyman’s response was enlightening: “The Stranger, when we meet him, does not know who he is.” Following that, Kavenaugh focused on her character’s arc rather than the wizard’s ultimate identity.

Season 2 Lays the Groundwork for Season 3

As the showrunners developed this character’s arc, Nori became pivotal to the story, with Tom Bombadil serving as a significant influence on the Stranger’s evolution. McKay explained, “Tom Bombadil is a fan-favorite but poses a challenge to introduce as he is somewhat of an anti-dramatic figure.” Throughout Season 2, viewers witness the Stranger beginning to discover his purpose, protecting the vulnerable and harnessing the magical essence of his wooden staff. The season finale sets the stage for exciting developments in the upcoming third season of Rings of Power.

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