Rings of Power season 2 release date, cast, and everything we know so far
The Prime Video series broke streaming records when its first season launched in 2022. With its second season incoming, many more thrills are expected
The highly anticipated new season of the epic Lord of the Rings series, Rings of Power, is set to hit screens soon, promising a wealth of revelations. The Prime Video series, which unfolds thousands of years prior to the events depicted in the beloved Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films, delves into the creation of the Rings of Power, the alliance between Elves and Men, and the rise of the Dark Lord Sauron.
The first season came with a hefty price tag of around $700 million (approximately £556 million), inclusive of rights from the J.R.R. Tolkien estate. From its premiere in September 2022 until December of the same year, the eight-episode season was viewed by over 100 million viewers, setting a record for Prime Video at the time.
Given the massive fanbase for both Lord of the Rings and Rings of Power, it's hardly surprising that fans are eagerly awaiting the second instalment of this hit show. The first season concluded with several plot threads left hanging, most notably the shocking revelation that Sauron had been hiding in plain sight all along, disguised as a human.
Here's what you can expect from the second season of Rings of Power and how you can catch it on Prime Video.
What can we anticipate in the second season of Rings of Power?
It seems the second season will pick up right where the first left off. The latest trailer suggests a focus on Sauron's ascent to power, as Sauron (portrayed by Charlie Vicker) causes chaos.
The blonde-haired villain also takes centre stage on the show's poster, smirking slightly as he gazes directly at the viewer.
The eagerly awaited second series of The Rings of Power is set to bring back a host of fan favourites, including Galadriel, Elrond, Prince Durin IV, Arondir, and Celebrimbor, as well as the creation of more Rings that fans are buzzing about.
A tantalising season synopsis reveals: "In Season Two of The Rings of Power, Sauron has returned. Cast out by Galadriel, without army or ally, the rising Dark Lord must now rely on his own cunning to rebuild his strength and oversee the creation of the Rings of Power, which will allow him to bind all the peoples of Middle-earth to his sinister will."
"Building on Season One's epic scope and ambition, the new season plunges even its most beloved and vulnerable characters into a rising tide of darkness, challenging each to find their place in a world that is increasingly on the brink of calamity."
"Elves and dwarves, orcs and men, wizards and Harfoots... as friendships are strained and kingdoms begin to fracture, the forces of good will struggle ever more valiantly to hold on to what matters to them most of all... each other."
Who is part of the cast this season?
The cast of The Rings of Power remains unchanged for the upcoming season. The series features Morfydd Clark as Galadriel, Charlie Vickers reprising his role as Sauron, Robert Aramayo as Elrond, Owain Arthur as Khazad-dum's Prince Durin, and Benjamin Walker as Gil-galad, among others.
Adar's character in the Rings of Power series has been recast, with Joseph Mawle stepping down and Sam Hazeldine taking over. Mawle expressed his feelings on social media, stating: "I loved my time exploring Middle-earth and diving into Tolkien's mythology."
"I'm so honoured that the character was liked. He cared deeply about telling you his story. Though as an actor it remains my wish, my job description, to explore new characters and worlds. Wishing all the best to cast and crew for S2, I'll be cheering you on from the sidelines."
When will the second season be released?
The second season of The Rings of Power is set to premiere on August 29, 2024, with new episodes available on Prime Video.
Where was Rings of Power filmed?
The filming location for the Rings of Power series, like the original film trilogy, was primarily in New Zealand. The show transports viewers back to a time when kingdoms rose to glory before their eventual downfall.
The executive producer previously revealed that the cast members were moved to tears by the stunning locations.
The Denize Bluffs, located on the North Island in New Zealand, serve as the backdrop for the migration of the Harfoots. Anawhata Beach, with its secluded location and rugged coastal surroundings, was chosen as an ideal filming spot for the series.
It can be seen in scenes where Galadriel, the fearsome elvish warrior, and Elendil ride across it on their horses.
Piha Beach, located to the west of Auckland, serves as the backdrop for a chance encounter between Galadriel and the enigmatic Halbrand, amidst tumultuous waves whipped up by the Sundering.
