The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power is set in the Second Age of Middle-earth, thousands of years before the events of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. This period is known for the rise of Sauron, the forging of the Rings of Power, and the eventual downfall of Númenor.
The series blends familiar characters from Tolkien's lore with new ones, creating a rich tapestry of stories set in a time when Middle-earth is still largely peaceful, though that peace is threatened by the dark ambitions of Sauron. Charlie Vickers, who plays Sauron, takes on a more prominent role in Season 2, with his character becoming more active in his quest to dominate Middle-earth.
This adaptation marks a significant milestone as it delves into the Second Age, a period that had not been previously explored in visual adaptations. With the show streaming on August 29th, fans do not have to wait long to see how the show will bring to life the rich history and dramatic events of this era, especially with Sauron emerging as a central figure.
There are new characters this season and fan favorite Tom Bombadil is indeed making his debut. Tom Bombadil is a beloved character from Tolkien's works, known for his mysterious and whimsical nature. He plays a memorable role in The Fellowship of the Ring when he rescues the hobbits from the Old Forest and the Barrow-downs. Ciarán Hinds portrays a new Dark Wizard character.
With Sauron cast out by Galadriel and forced to rely on his cunning, the stage is set for his rise as the Dark Lord, a central figure in Tolkien's lore. The creation of the Rings of Power is a crucial part of his plan to dominate Middle-earth, and seeing this unfold on screen will be a significant moment for fans of the series.
The new season doubles down on the epic scale and ambition established in the first season, with all characters—Elves, Dwarves, Orcs, Men, Wizards, and Harfoots—facing escalating threats. The narrative explores the toll that rising darkness takes on these characters, testing their friendships, loyalties, and courage as the world teeters on the edge of calamity.
As kingdoms fracture and alliances are strained, the struggle between good and evil will intensify, making for a season filled with moral dilemmas, epic battles, and the complex interplay of light and shadow that defines Tolkien's world. The focus on characters holding onto each other in the face of overwhelming darkness speaks to the heart of what makes The Lord of the Rings so enduring: the power of friendship and hope in the darkest of times.
The Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power Season 2 drops on Prime Video on August 29.
