The once invincible Hollywood is gradually bending to the pressure. In the recent months, an ongoing strike by the Writer’s Guild of America (WGA) has delivered an indelible blow, impeding the progression of numerous high-budget projects. Now, the entertainment industry is gearing up for another significant disruption as actors gear up to join the writers in this protest, hinting at an impending Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) strike. This dual strike action threatens to bring nearly all production within the industry to a standstill. Nonetheless, certain projects seem to have averted this fate, having wrapped up filming before the onset of the strike.
This impending show of unity between actors and writers signifies the first joint strike by both the WGA and SAG-AFTRA in over six decades, with the previous one occurring back in 1960. Numerous projects are bound to feel the brunt of these unfolding developments. However, as reported by Variety, Prime Video’s “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” Season 2 seems to be immune. To quote a phrase cherished by the fans, “Praise Eru Ilúvatar.” This epic series, based on the acclaimed novels by esteemed author J.R.R. Tolkien, and developed by J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay, reincarnates the Second Age of Middle Earth in an unprecedented manner. Season 2 of this fantasy saga initiated production last year, and according to Variety’s report, concluded filming several weeks ago, implying that the launch of the sophomore season is unlikely to be postponed.
This news comes as a relief to fans of the series and Middle Earth enthusiasts. It aligns with previous reports on the multitude of delays that the second season has faced. Apart from the impact of the WGA strike and its implications on the show in the absence of Payne and McKay, Season 2 of “The Rings of Power” has also weathered an on-set fire and a horse fatality.
The Financial Burden of “The Rings of Power”
This venture has turned out to be a hefty investment for Amazon. With a budget of $58 million allocated per episode and a jaw-dropping estimated expense of $462 million for the debut season, the show’s struggle to maintain its viewer base during the first season is understandably worrisome. However, given the meticulous quality of Tolkien’s original material and a detailed plan for future seasons, the production studio is optimistic that this substantial investment will start paying off. The narrative’s future can be strongly propelled by the rivalry between Sauron (portrayed by Charlie Vickers) and Galadriel (played by Morfydd Clark). If the on-screen chemistry between these adversaries sustains, the Second Age of Middle Earth is poised to offer an incredibly immersive journey.
Season 1 of “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” is currently available for streaming on Prime Video.
