Prime Video has released a new image for Ciaran HindsThe mysterious “Dark Wizard” character in Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power Season 2. Hinds is known for his role in another huge fantasy franchise, playing Mance Rayder in game of thrones (He even appeared in the final Harry Potter film.) He is one of the best Irish actors of his generation thanks to his brilliant performances in films like Road to Perdition, Munich, There Will Be Bloodand Belfast. Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power Season 2 focuses on the rise of the Dark Lord Sauron (Charlie Vickers) and Galadriel's efforts to defeat him. Hinds is sure to be a big part of that story. Check out the new image below from Prime Video:
Prime Video also released a trailer showing a glimpse of the character. Described as a “dark and powerful sorcerer whose origins and intentions are shrouded in secrecy,” Hinds' character will play a key role in the adventures of the Stranger (Daniel Wyman) and his shaggy companion, Nori (Markella Cavenagh), as they journey east to Rhône, in search of the Stranger's magical origins.
Prime Video notes that the Dark Wizard has an “army of magic-wielding disciples who obey his every command.” Among them are the three beings seen tracking the Stranger in Season 1. Assuming the Wizard sent them, and knowing that the disciples mistakenly believed the Stranger to be Sauron, this gives us some clues about the Wizard's plans.
Watch the trailer for Season 2 of Rings of Power below:
Who is the dark wizard?
In Tolkien's writings, only five Istari, also known as wizards, were sent to Middle-earth during the Third Age. Lord of the Rings Fans have speculated as to which of the five will appear in the series. The stranger has been confirmed to be an Istari; who he is remains a mystery. However, he is popularly considered to be Gandalf for several reasons.
Investigators have searched the internet for evidence linking the stranger to Gandalf, highlighting similarities such as the wardrobe. As in Tolkien's novel Lord of the Rings, Appearance is an important indicator of a person's rank in the Istari order. In the films, Saruman wears white and Gandalf wears grey, just like the Stranger. Furthermore, in Rings of power End of season one, the stranger reassures Nouri, “When in doubt, Eleanor Brandyfoot, always follow your nose,” Which happens to be the same advice Gandalf gave Meriadoc in Fellowship of the Ring film.
Some also speculate that the Black Wizard is Saruman. However, this would conflict with established book and film lore, as Saruman, The White Wizard, whose alliance with Sauron was only revealed centuries after the events of Rings of power“It's a very exciting time for us,” Patrick McKay, one of the show's co-producers, told ComicBook in a recent interview.
Saruman turns to evil, believing it is the best way to save the world, no matter what twisted logic he comes up with. So
We know that good characters can turn evil and we know that witches can turn to the dark side too.
“So to speak, and seeing how things go with Serian Hinds will be a real thrill for people, hopefully.”
With Soran and this dark wizard's influence spreading and power projected throughout Middle-earth, the stakes are higher this season. It will be interesting to see how their evil schemes clash or benefit from each other. Fans are patiently waiting for the true identity of this wizard to be revealed.
Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power
Season 2 will premiere on Prime Video on August 29.
