The Rings of Power season 2 is here, meaning one of the best shows on Amazon Prime has finally returned to our screens. And it's been a long wait since season 1 ended with the shocking reveal that Halbrand is actually Sauron. Thankfully, the three-episode drop helps unravel the effect that will have on Middle-earth.
There's plenty to unpack with this season's opening episodes as we rejoin beloved characters such as Galadriel, Elrond, and the Stranger. Several storylines are playing out as the Elves pursue Sauron, the Dark Lord puts his evil plan into action, the dwarves battle a crumbling Khazad-dûm, and the Stranger continues his journey with the Harfoots. And that's just the start of it as this season of The Rings of Power is set to be action-packed.
So, join us for our recap of the first three episodes. Warning - the following features major spoilers for The Rings of Power season 2 episodes 1 to 3 so make sure you have watched before continuing. And for our thoughts on this season, check out our The Rings of Power season 2 review .
Episode 1 The first episode opens with a flashback to the Dawn of the Second Age where a younger Sauron , here played by Slow Horses star Jack Lowden , is attempting to assume control of the orcs. However they are unimpressed by his statement that many orcs will die in his pursuit of forging "a new and perfect order" to "heal Middle-earth". As Adar crowns Sauron, he actually stabs him with the headpiece, using it as a weapon, and a fight break.