The article discusses the season finale of ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power’ Season 2, which sets the stage for a potential Season 3 amidst brewing conflicts. It highlights Gil-galad’s preparations for war against Sauron, the turmoil in Khazad-dum, Pharazon’s rise to power in Númenor, and the implications of Sauron’s potential imprisonment. While the third season remains unconfirmed, it hints at significant developments, including a possible war and the unraveling of Númenor.
Warning: This article contains spoilers for the season finale of ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power’ Season 2!
Watch ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power’ on Amazon Prime Video❯
The climactic ending of the second season of ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power’ sets the stage for what lies ahead in Season 3. While we await official confirmation, the anticipation for another season is strong.
Although a release date before 2026 seems unlikely, let’s delve into what major events we might expect in ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power’ Season 3!
Middle-earth Faces War Against Sauron
The season concludes with Gil-galad (Ben Walker) gearing up for battle against Sauron (Charlie Vickers). With the nine Rings of Man in his possession, Sauron aims to forge the One Ring in Mordor to dominate the other Rings of Power.
Through these rings granted to humans, Sauron’s influence over Middle-earth will grow, presented as a formidable threat to the Elves. Meanwhile, the Dwarven stronghold of Khazad-dum finds itself in crisis, plagued by a Balrog of Morgoth and issues of succession.
Challenges for Khazad-dum
Following the death of King Durin III (Peter Mullan), Durin IV (Owain Arthur) should rightly ascend the throne. However, Narvi (Kevin Eldon) uncovers discontent among dwarves, many of whom favor Durin’s brother, who may be introduced in Season 3.
It’s noteworthy that these events unfold many years after the timeline in the books, leaving some uncertainty regarding the series’ direction. If we align the series events with the texts, then the Balrog would strike down the king, devastate the kingdom, and force the dwarves into exile.
The dwarves will seek refuge in the Lonely Mountain, known from ‘The Hobbit’ films. Since it’s not Durin III who falls victim to the Balrog in the writings, but rather Durin VI, the storyline may diverge significantly.
Durin IV’s fate also hangs in the balance. If the series adheres to the books, where the Balrog kills both Durin VI and his son, it could bode ill for Durin IV’s future as well.
Pharazon’s Rise on Númenor
Pharazon (Trystan Gravelle) consolidates his power in the island kingdom of Númenor. Using manipulative tactics, he accuses Míriel (Cynthia Addai-Robinson) of colluding with Sauron to eliminate his rivals.
In the literary source, he marries Míriel to strengthen his claim to the throne. Whether this plot point will manifest in ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power’ Season 3 remains to be seen. Additionally, the storyline involving Kemen (Leon Wadham) fortifying Middle-earth under his father’s orders will continue.
Viewing himself as superior to the so-called ‘low men’ of Middle-earth, Pharazon will venture to Middle-earth in the next season, intending to engage in the conflict against Sauron—not out of kindness, but for fame and recognition!
Gil-galad’s Offensive Against Sauron
As Gil-galad mobilizes his forces for battle in Lindon, Elrond busies himself constructing Rivendell, a sanctuary for those seeking safety. The power of the Elven Rings will keep Rivendell shielded from the prying eyes of Orcs and Sauron.
As the High King of the Elves, Gil-galad is poised to take the fight directly to Sauron, taking the battle to the enemy instead of remaining on the defensive.
Gandalf (Daniel Weyman) will also have a pivotal role after Season 2, as his path is destined to cross with Círdan (Ben Daniels). Given Tolkien’s lore, their encounter is inevitable, paving the way for a deep friendship that may flourish throughout Season 3 as Gandalf proves his worth in the struggle against Sauron, potentially earning Círdan’s trust as a ring bearer.
With Pharazon’s support, Gil-galad may achieve victory in battle. However, Pharazon’s ambition could lead him to take Sauron