The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power is a show beloved by the franchise's fandom. Shortly after season 1 was released on Prime Video, it was renewed for season 2, which will be released on August 29, 2024.
With an upcoming season, fans appear to be hung up about one particular character who appeared in the finale of season 1 on October 14, 2022. The final episode of Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power series saw the highly anticipated identity reveal of Halbrand, who turned out to be Sauron.
However, the most perplexing ordeal was the identity of 'The Stranger' through the first season! Ever since the end of episode 8 (finale) took place nearly 2 years ago, Reddit has been abuzz with questions and speculations over the identity of the mystery stranger.
Could 'The Stranger' from Lord of The Rings: Rings of Power be Gandalf after all?
A forum on Reddit dedicated to The Lord of the Rings franchise raised the aforementioned question, which resulted in a myriad of theories about the stranger's identity. One such theorist suggested that the stranger could be Gandalf, the protagonist from The Lord of the Rings franchise.
The user points out that although the chances of the aforementioned remain high, the stranger's true identity remains an unknown variable. Furthermore, the person suggests that if Gandalf wasn't introduced in the first season, there's a low probability of him appearing in future seasons.
In response, another user stated alleged proof of the stranger being anybody else but Gandalf. The Reddit user credited their answer to the kind of magic used by the protagonist in the franchise: Fire magic. As emphasized in the books and movies, Gandalf is one of the most powerful users of fire magic with eons of experience—a trait the stranger appears to possess.
Circling back to the remark, the user recalls Radagast and Saruman's powers, too, but neither hones the blazing fire magic. Also, a noteworthy point would be that neither of these characters has made an appearance yet.
Nevertheless, Radagast is more allured by the natural world - creatures of the earth and herbs, and is attuned to like-mannered powers. Additionally, he's a shapeshifter - very handy! Saruman's powers, on the other hand, deal with thought control and influence.
Lastly, another user chimed in agreement that the aforementioned is undoubtedly Gandalf. The theorist urges fellow users on Reddit not to overthink the identity of this elusive person. Instead, trust that it is indeed Gandalf because the creators of Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power had Halbrand as Sauron in reality.
If not Gandalf, who else could the stranger on The Lord of The Rings: The Rings of Power be?
Although a majority deduced Gandalf to be the stranger, users were divided about another character: Saruman. Amid the jibber-jabber about Gandalf, a Reddit user asked if anyone considered the possibility that it could also be Saruman despite popular belief.
One such user agreed with a rather sound elaboration on the possibility. The user pointed out that Saruman's nobility was on par with Gandalf and that it extended for a long period. Furthermore, the user highlights Saruman being the very first wizard to have made an appearance in the books—very similar to the stranger's storyline.
Likewise, users suggested other characters from the series. However, they place their guesses on the stranger being a representative of the Istari or the renowned blue wizards. However, the truth about the stranger's identity will unravel only after season 2 airs.
Recap of Season 1 finale of The Lord of The Rings: The Rings of Power.
The final episode of the show sees a final glimpse of the stranger who uses the map Sadoc loaned him to get home (to his constellation). Shortly after the wholesome scene, Galadriel proceeds to confront Halbrand about the truth behind Sauron's identity.
This eventually leads to her using her powers to create the three rings, which are named 'Narya, Vilya, and Nenya', respectively. Galadriel, however, claims the ring of Adamant for herself, while the remaining two are yet to find their owners.
Is there a season 2 of Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power?
The answer is yes! The show has been renewed for season 2, which is set to explore the aftermath of the rings' formation. Furthermore, it will also discuss the many unanswered questions, including who the stranger is. Per sources, the show is set to release later this month on August 29, 2024.
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While you await the release of season 2 of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, binge the first season on Prime Video.
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