The Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power has sparked intense discussion since its premiere, becoming one of the year’s most debated TV launches. Early reactions show a mix of enthusiasm and critical scrutiny, with aggregate sites reflecting a divided consensus between critics and general audiences. A notable portion of the discourse centers on casting choices, particularly the portrayal of hobbits and elves by actors of diverse backgrounds. Lenny Henry, who appears as Sadoc Burrows, has weighed in on the conversation, challenging readers to examine their assumptions about who fits ancient fantasy roles.
In a candid chat with GQ, Henry expressed concern that viewers can readily suspend disbelief for mythical dragons, yet struggle to accept a black actor in a hobbit or elf role. His point prompted broader reflection within fan communities about representation and the expectations tied to classic fantasy universes.
May God bless them. They have no trouble believing in the dragon, but they have trouble believing that a black person can be a member of the court. Or that a black could be a hobbit or an elf.
— Lenny Henry
British writer Neil Gaiman further joined the dialogue, offering a perspective that resonates with many readers who celebrate Tolkien’s work for its depth and variety. Gaiman reminded audiences that the source material describes a range of skin tones among different hobbits, and he argued against dismissing adaptations that expand those possibilities, suggesting that resistance often reveals bias rather than a flaw in the storytelling.
Tolkien did not write, “Roughlegs spent more time in the sun than other hobbits, so they were much more tanned.” He said they were “darker in skin.” I think anyone who grumbles about this is a racist or hasn’t read Tolkien.
— Neil Gaiman
Ismael Cruz Cordova, who plays the elf Arondira, added his voice to the discussion with reflections on the intensity of the audition process and the responsibility he felt when carrying the role. He described his commitment to presenting an elf that felt authentic and luminous in a way that honors the character’s heritage while embracing contemporary diversity. Cordova urged fans to look past surface expectations, noting that the creative team aimed to bring a fresh and compelling interpretation to a well-loved saga.
I fought so hard for this role for this reason. I felt I could carry this torch. I made sure my elf was the most elfin and the most incredible because I knew it would happen.
Never use the phrase “But that’s not what the elves looked like” as an excuse. Yes, they didn’t, but now they do.
— Ismael Cruz Cordova
The show’s debut two-episode rollout occurred on a weekend that ignited conversations across social platforms, fan forums, and mainstream media. Viewers who were long-time readers of Tolkien’s mythic world weighed in with varied opinions about how the new series handles lore, tone, and aesthetic choices. While some critics praised the ambitious world-building and upgraded production values, others questioned pacing, character development, and how closely the adaptation adheres to established canon. The resulting dialogue reflects a broader tension in modern fantasy: the pull to stay faithful to beloved source material while updating it for a diverse, global audience.
For newcomers, the series offers an entry point into a vast fantasy universe, with rich world-building designed to elucidate mythos and backstory. For longtime fans, it presents a reimagined lens on familiar figures, inviting fresh interpretations while inviting debate about representation and inclusivity within legendary settings. The latest chapters promise to deepen the discussion about how heritage, identity, and storytelling intersect in high-profile fantasy productions.
As the narrative unfolds, critics and fans alike will be watching not only for spectacle but for how the show balances homage with innovation. The conversation around Rings of Power underscores a larger conversation in contemporary media: audiences increasingly expect inclusive casting that honors the complexity of real-world identities without sacrificing storytelling integrity. The series is positioned to contribute significantly to this ongoing dialogue, shaping how future adaptations approach race, character, and myth in popular culture.