The Rings of Power Season 2 has captivated audiences with the introduction of an enigmatic Dark Wizard. His identity remains shrouded in mystery, sparking intense speculation among fans. Many are questioning whether this new antagonist is Gandalf or Sauron. Played by Ciaran Hinds, the Dark Wizard has established a presence in the region of Rhun. Intriguingly, it has been revealed that this same character was responsible for the white-cloaked mystics who pursued the Stranger in Season 1. As the series progresses, viewers eagerly await further clues to unravel the true nature of this powerful and enigmatic figure.
Here’s everything you need to know about whether Gandalf or Sauron is the actual antagonist in The Rings of Power Season 2.
Is The Rings of Power’s Dark Wizard Gandalf or Sauron?
It is currently unconfirmed if The Rings of Power’s Dark Wizard is Gandalf or Sauron.
However, what seems to be clear is that he is an Istar like the Stranger. Istar means “wizard” and “wise one’ and this new character has “wizard” in his title.
The creators have also not revealed who this new Dark Wizard is in a recent press junket for GamesRadar+. They denied giving a direct answer when asked about the character.
Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings introduces five Istar, or wizards. Three of these wizards—Gandalf, Saruman, and Radagast—play significant roles in the story. The remaining two, known as the Blue Wizards or Ithryn Luin, receive less attention.
As for whom this Dark Wizard in The Rings of Power is, the theory that he is Gandalf can be ruled out. This is because the events of The Rings of Power take place during the Second Age of Middle-earth and Gandalf only arrives at Middle-earth during the third age.
Moreover, there is also a theory that The Stranger from Seasons 1 and 2 might be Gandalf. This is because he says the same line “When in doubt….always follow your nose,” which Gandalf says in the Lord of the Rings films. This also rules out the theory of the Dark Wizard being Gandalf.
The Dark Wizard’s evil nature has led many to speculate that he might be Sauron in disguise. However, this theory is undermined by Sauron’s current impersonation of Annatar and manipulation of Celebrimbor.
The Dark Wizard’s striking resemblance to Saruman, both in appearance and speech, strongly suggests they are the same character. However, this theory is undermined by Saruman’s arrival in Middle-earth during the Third Age and his subsequent descent into evil. Additionally, he cannot be Radagast, as both characters arrived in Middle-earth at the same time and Radagast’s sole focus was on plant and animal welfare. This would leave him little time to cultivate a cult of loyal mystics like the Dark Wizard.
While there is a possibility that the Dark Wizard could be one of the Ithryn Luin, or blue wizards, this remains unconfirmed. Ultimately, the mystery of the Dark Wizard’s identity will remain unsolved until the conclusion of the second season.
