Warning: This article contains spoilers for Season 2 of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power!

The Confrontation of Galadriel and Sauron in Season 2 Finale

In the latest developments of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, Galadriel and Sauron’s complex relationship reaches a dramatic conclusion. This season follows the journey of Morfydd Clark’s character, Galadriel, who, after collaborating with Celebrimbor to forge the iconic Rings of Power, receives ominous visions of tragedy. These prophecies spur her to embark on a perilous quest across Middle-earth, aiming to rescue Celebrimbor from the impending threat posed by Sauron. Meanwhile, Charlie Vickers’ portrayal of Sauron takes a dark turn as he infiltrates Eregion first in the guise of Halbrand and later as Annatar, subtly coercing Celebrimbor into creating additional rings.

Season 2 Climax and Consequences

The Season 2 finale crescendos into chaos as Adar and the Uruk mount a successful attack on Eregion. Galadriel becomes embroiled in the conflict, struggling to escape with the Nine Rings of Men while Sauron, having dispatched Celebrimbor, attempts manipulation once more. In a pivotal encounter, Sauron engages Galadriel in a fierce battle but fails to sway her allegiance. She ultimately leaps off a cliff, escaping him but not without narrowly evading death. Surviving the tumult, Galadriel and her fellow Elves find refuge in the serene valley destined to become Rivendell.

Returning Cast and Rising Tensions

The second season boasts an impressive ensemble cast, featuring returning actors such as Robert Aramayo as Elrond, Owain Arthur as Durin IV, and Maxim Baldry as Isildur, alongside others like Charles Edwards (Celebrimbor), Ismael Cruz Córdova (Arondir), and Sophia Nomvete (Disa). As the narrative intensifies, the stakes are raised for these characters, skillfully drawing them closer to their literary origins and keeping the audience on edge.

Interviews Highlight Season Highlights

As the show prepares for an awards season spotlight, ScreenRant took the opportunity to converse with Morfydd Clark and Charlie Vickers. They touched upon the season’s standout moments, including the significant confrontation between Galadriel and Sauron, and explored the implications for their characters moving forward. They also discussed a seemingly romantic moment between Elrond and Galadriel, examining whether it carries deeper meanings.

Clark’s Take on Elrond and Galadriel’s Kiss

Elrond and Galadriel pulling away from a kiss in Rings of Power

ScreenRant: Morfydd, one of the key surprises of this season was the kiss between Galadriel and Elrond. Did you interpret Galadriel’s feelings as reciprocated, or was she caught off guard like the audience?

Morfydd Clark: I initially wished for Elven characters to express their affection more openly. To me, their kiss symbolizes deep admiration in a platonic sense. It was a lovely, unexpected moment, evoking a romantic gasp from viewers. However, I believe many forms of love exist beyond romance, and the connection between Elrond and Galadriel is one layered with years of respect and loyalty, which I find profoundly beautiful.

Sauron’s Willingness to Let Celebrimbor’s Work Fall

Sauron (Charlie Vickers) tries to manipulate Galadriel

Charlie, how does Sauron view the destruction wrought upon Celebrimbor’s work by the Uruk?

Charlie Vickers: The destruction of Celebrimbor’s creations reflects a loss of Elven lore rather than a setback for Sauron. His disdain for the Elves allows him to prioritize his own ambitions. Even though these losses may jeopardize his knowledge, he has retained the crucial insights needed to construct the next ring, which he has been crafting with increasing intensity.

Galadriel’s Emotional Journey to Rivendell

Morfydd Clark's Galadriel looking intensely at Sauron

Morfydd, with the emergence of Rivendell as a safe haven, do you think Galadriel feels hope, or is she weighed down by guilt from her experiences?

Morfydd Clark: Galadriel will undoubtedly carry a sense of guilt from her actions, which leaves a shadow on her heart. However, as she resolves to close the door on Sauron by taking that leap, she embraces her capacity to nurture hope and love. This leap signifies the beginning of her evolution towards becoming the Lady of Light, marking a distinct separation from Sauron and allowing her to shine despite his attempts to reach her.

Sauron’s Growing Power in the Face of Loss

Sauron contemplating the hammer of Fëanor in Season 2

Charlie, as Sauron recovers from his losses, do you foresee him being emboldened or aimless as he enters the next season?

Charlie Vickers: I believe Sauron will emerge more emboldened, approaching his peak power. This next phase could present a formidable version of Sauron, wielding substantial influence. Although there are hints at deeper psychological dynamics with other characters, including Pharazôn, the overarching narrative will emphasize his vendetta against the Elves.

Morfydd Clark: Sauron’s incessant desire to transcend boundaries suggests he will relentlessly pursue his ambitions.

About The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power Season 2

In the second season of The Rings of Power, Sauron resurfaces, now alone and stripped of allies. The Dark Lord must rely on cunning as he embarks on a quest to regain strength and oversee the crafting of the Rings of Power, aiming to dominate all of Middle-earth. This season delves deeper into the soaring stakes for beloved characters, thrusting them into a narrative drenched in darkness. As they grapple with fractured alliances, the enduring forces of good must strive to preserve the bonds that matter most.