The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power season 2 trailer
The highly anticipated new season of the epic Lord of the Rings series Rings of Power is almost upon us - but one actor won't be returning. The Prime Video series, which takes place millennia before the events of the beloved Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films, delves into the creation of the Rings of Power, an 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), including rights from the J.R.R. Tolkien estate. From its debut in September 2022 to December of the same year, the eight-episode season drew in over 100 million viewers, setting a new record as the most-watched show ever on Prime Video at that time.
Viewers are eagerly anticipating the second season of Rings of Power on August 29, but Joseph Mawle won't be returning as Orc leader Adar. Here is why Adar has been recast and what to expect with the character in season two.
What happened to the actor who played Adar?
Joseph Mawle portrayed Adar in the first season of The Rings of Power and won plaudits for his performance as one of the series' main villains. Amazon Prime Studios confirmed that English actor Sam Hazeldine will take over the role in the second season and beyond.
In a casting notice shared by Amazon in December 2022, Sam Hazeldine was announced as Mawle’s replacement, although no reason was given. Explaining why he moved on from Rings of Power, Mawle shared on social media: "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 X."
Who is playing Adar in Rings of Power season 2?
Sam Hazeldine will play Adar in Rings of Power season two and aims to continue the villain's journey through Middle Earth. Fans may recognize Hazeldine from several of his performances in recent years, including George Sewell in crime drama Peaky Blinders.
Hazeldine has made small roles in major films, including The Huntsman: Winter's War, The Hitman's Bodyguard, and The Last Duel, Grimsby and '71.
In recent years, Hazeldine also appeared in streaming hits including Barnaby in The Sandman and as Eredin on The Witcher on Netflix, as well as Apple TV+ shows Masters of the Air and Slow Horses.
What could happen with Adar in season 2 of Rings of Power?
Season one hinted at a history between the Uruk and Sauron, with the Dark Lord believing that Adar acted against him. Adar thinks he killed Sauron and has no idea the Dark Lord has, in fact, returned.
Adar is a more sympathetic leader of the Orcs as he sought to find a home for his army. When a volcanic eruption destroys the Southlands, Adar was branded "Lord of the Southlands" in episode seven 'The Eye'.
Season two may reveal what Adar did to anger Sauron and how the Orc leader became corrupted. With the rise of Sauron in season one, we could see Adar and Sauron meet again and it could possibly be fatal.
