Very little lore can compare to the work put into the creation ofThe Lord of the RingsbyJ.R.R. Tolkien. A brilliant literary piece that immerses its readership. So it was no surprise that whenPeter Jacksonpulled off hisLord of the Ringstrilogy, coupling his own genius to Tolkien’s birthed an epic masterpiece. Despite his next crack at the lore flopping somewhat withThe Hobbittrilogy, expectations were high when Amazon Studios announced a new series,The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power. But it would seem that one of the most expensive series ever had a challenge with its viewership.
The show’s premiere did not disappoint, pulling in an impressive 25 million viewers to join the return to Middle Earth breaking records for the streamer along the way. By end of the eight-episode first season, Amazon Studios headVernon Sanderstouted the series asthe studio’s “most watched show ever"and with good reason given thatRings of Powerhad been seen by 100 million people worldwide with more than 24 billion minutes streamed. However, a new report fromThe Hollywood Reporterhas revealed that in the United States, only 37 percent of viewers who started the series, saw it to its completion. The numbers from international audiences fared better, however, it still had less than half of its viewers complete the adventure with just 45 percent. By industry standards, a 50 percent completion rate is seen as “solid” albeit not ideal.
This report does not come from Amazon officially but was reportedly from individuals within the organization. Amazon is prepared to continue to viewRings of Poweras a success, havinggone into production for Season 2in October, with theseries set to return in 2024, Amazon Studios CEOJennifer Salkewants to remain positive. Per the same report, Salke dismisses the assertion that the show’s inability to retain viewers is a problem stating that the fantasy series remains a hit in hand for Amazon. “This desire to paint the show as anything less than a success — it’s not reflective of any conversation I’m having internally,” she said, adding that the second season will have even bigger, more dramatic storylines. “That’s a huge opportunity for us. The first season required a lot of setting up.”
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Who is New to the Cast ofRings of Power?
As the show prepares to return for a second season, the cast has undergone changes with additions and recasts to a number of characters.Sam Hazeldine, is confirmed as areplacementfor Season 1 starJoseph Mawleas the villain Adar. Hazeldine’s addition came with the series bringing in nearly adozen new cast members. The casting announcements did not stop therewith the additionofCiarán Hinds,Rory Kinnear,andTanya Moodiein recurring roles. They join the first season cast ofMorfydd Clark,Charlie Vickers,Markella Kavenaugh,and others as we continue this epic tale.
The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of PowerSeason 2 is currently in production with no set release date. Check out our interview with Clark and Vickers below:
