Who is The Dark Wizard in Rings of Power Season 2?
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As "The Rings of Power" continues to enchant and intrigue viewers on Amazon Prime, one question has fans buzzing more than any other as we venture deeper into the second season: Who is the Dark Wizard? This character's dramatic reveal has sparked widespread speculation and excitement.
Of course, there are multiple theories on sites like Reddit, some ranging from fairy obvious (such as Saruman), to ones that require a bit more understanding of Tolkin’s work, The Silmarillion in particular.
So let’s explore the three more popular ones, and give my two cents on who I think the Dark Wizard truly is.
Before we dive in, make sure to grab our code for Amazon Prime Free Trial, so you can enjoy The Rings of Power and many other of your favorite shows!
What is Rings of Power on Amazon?
"Rings of Power" is Amazon Prime’s ambitious venture into J.R.R. Tolkien’s legendary world, set thousands of years before the events of "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings."
Drawing primarily from the appendices of "The Lord of the Rings" and “The Silmarillion”, the series explores the forging of the great rings, the rise of the Dark Lord Sauron, the fall of the island kingdom of Númenor, and other foundational stories of Middle-earth during the Second Age.
While many critique the creative liberties taken by the show-runners, nobody can deny that Rings of Power has all Tolkien fans glued to their screens the moment a new episode drops.
Who is The Dark Wizard in the Rings of Power?
The identity of the Dark Wizard introduced in Season 2 of "Rings of Power" has become a focal point for speculation. This mysterious figure, cloaked in darkness and wielding formidable powers, has left viewers piecing together clues from the lore.
Here, we will explore the three most probable theories about his identity.
Option 1: Saruman, the obvious choice
At first glance, the Dark Wizard bears a striking resemblance to Saruman, as portrayed by Christopher Lee in Peter Jackson’s "The Lord of the Rings" film trilogy.
This visual parallel might seem to point to Saruman, known for his later corruption and affinity for dark powers. However, Saruman’s involvement in Middle-earth's earlier ages, specifically the Second Age which is the period "Rings of Power" covers, is not documented in Tolkien’s writings.
Saruman, like the other Istari (wizards), does not arrive in Middle-earth until the Third Age. Thus, while the show could take creative liberties, the likelihood of this figure being Saruman aligns more with visual misdirection rather than lore accuracy.
Option 2: Khamûl the Easterling
A more intriguing and plausible theory is that the Dark Wizard could be Khamûl the Easterling, one of the nine Nazgûl and second only to the Witch-king of Angmar in rank and power.
Khamûl’s deep involvement with Sauron and his command among the Ringwraiths make him a likely candidate for the mysterious Dark Wizard. His backstory as an Easterling leader, who was corrupted by one of the nine rings given to mortal men, provides rich narrative soil for "Rings of Power" to explore, especially his transformation from a man of might to a wraith ensnared by Sauron’s will.
Khamûl’s narrative could seamlessly intertwine with the overarching themes of power and corruption that are central to the series.
Option 3: One of the Blue Wizards
Perhaps the most compelling and least expected theory is that the Dark Wizard could be one of the Blue Wizards.
Tolkien’s writings evolved over time regarding these enigmatic characters. Initially, alongside Saruman, Gandalf, and Radagast, the Blue Wizards failed in their mission to counter Sauron’s influence in the East and South of Middle-earth. Later, Tolkien revised their story, suggesting they arrived during the Second Age and had a more significant impact than previously thought, potentially starting cults and magical traditions that endured.
This backstory provides fertile ground for "Rings of Power" to explore a narrative where one of the Blue Wizards succumbs to darkness, embodying the duality of their mission and the seductive nature of power. This could align with the show’s themes and add depth to the lesser-known lore of Middle-earth, giving audiences a fresh perspective on the consequences of the wizards’ interventions in human affairs.
Personally, I believe this is the right theory as well. It also creates a compelling narrative when looking at the Stranger’s story. In my humble opinion, the show-runners are doing a great job of misdirecting audiences, leading them to believe that the Stranger is Gandalf, and the Dark Wizard is Saruman.
So let’s wait for a couple of more episodes, and see if I’m right! I just truly hope that Rings of Power doesn’t follow in the footsteps of The Wheel of Time and The Witcher, where the creative liberties taken have pushed the narrative in a direction that, let’s face it, nobody’s happy with. But only time will tell…
Conclusion
The Dark Wizard in "Rings of Power" Season 2 has opened up a labyrinth of lore and speculation that continues to divide the series’ audience.
Whether he turns out to be Khamûl the Easterling, one of the enigmatic Blue Wizards, or another character entirely, his identity will undoubtedly be central to the unfolding drama and the eternal battle between light and darkness in Middle-earth.
As the series progresses, we eagerly await the revelation of this Dark Wizard’s true nature and his role in the epic saga of the Second Age. Stay tuned, as Middle-earth’s past has yet to reveal all its secrets!
