Rings of Power’s Gandalf Actor Hopes for a Crossover in Future Lord of the Rings Films

Daniel Weyman is stepping into the role of Gandalf, and following the dramatic reveal in the finale of Rings of Power Season 2, he is eager to portray Middle-earth’s most iconic wizard on the big screen.

Here’s the scoop about Rings of Power: while it lacks the rights to The Silmarillion and other Tolkien works, the story’s conclusion is clear. Sauron must forge the One Ring, Númenor will inevitably fall, and the Dark Lord will face defeat (at least to some extent) during the Last Alliance of Elves and Men.

Nevertheless, the Stranger has remained the central enigma since his introduction in Season 1. Fans have speculated endlessly about his identity; some believed he was Sauron, others thought he might be a Blue Wizard, or even Saruman.

But I stayed true to my conviction: he’s Gandalf! In the breathtaking final moments of Season 2 Episode 8, he retrieves his staff, uncovers his true name, and shares an enchanting moment with Tom Bombadil. It’s truly magical.

Daniel Weyman Hasn’t Met Ian McKellen

“That’s quite a long stretch. I’m really looking forward to finally getting out there,” Weyman expressed.

Daniel Weyman as Gandalf in Rings of Power and Ian McKellen as Gandalf in Lord of the Rings — Prime Video/Warner Bros.

Weyman is certainly aware of the importance of the role. For many fans, Sir Ian McKellen has embodied Gandalf since 2001 with Fellowship of the Ring, and he even has plans to reprise the role for The Hunt for Gollum. In a light-hearted manner, McKellen mentioned that he’s not fond of anyone else taking on the character.

Weyman shared that their “paths haven’t crossed” , but he appreciates that both actors have drawn inspiration from the same source material.

“Our Gandalfs are different; they exist thousands of years apart. The beauty of playing any role in this show—or anything based on Tolkien’s work—is the ability to return to the books. For Gandalf, there’s this incredible warmth,” he explained.

“I think that essence resonates at the core of it, which is one of the aspects I cherished most about this role.”

Could Daniel Weyman’s Gandalf Appear in Future Lord of the Rings Movies?

Rings of Power is not linked to Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings films. However, a crossover is not entirely implausible; after all, the series employed the same designer responsible for the Balrog in Fellowship, and since McKellen is now 85 years old, Weyman could be considered as a successor should McKellen decide to retire.

Daniel Weyman as Gandalf in Rings of Power — Prime Video

“One of the most thrilling aspects of not only portraying a wizard but also being informed that others will refer to him as Gandalf, feels like living out a childhood dream,” Weyman remarked.

“I remember as a child being captivated by the notion of magic. Even today, I’m mesmerized by magicians or illusionists. The thought of channeling energy between the cosmos and the earth, acting as a conduit for universal power—I still find it hard to believe my fortune,” he added.

Weyman expressed his desire to play Gandalf in a movie. “I adore the Stranger. His journey of self-discovery before arriving in Middle-earth is yet to be explored. While he hasn’t regained much knowledge, uncovering that will be a thrilling process,” he theorized.

“I genuinely love the character and would jump at the chance to portray him anytime, anywhere.”

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To find out if Rings of Power Season 3 has a release date, check our interview with Elrond’s actor about that Galadriel kiss, and learn how Sauron’s actor improvised the most emotional scene in the Season 2 finale. We also provide guides on the Dark Wizard and the Undying Lands.

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