Here's How Biggest LoTR Star Really Feels About Rings of Power
The Rings of Power has received a mixed reception from its audience over the run of its first season. As the only live on-screen television series adaption of Tolkien's work, the show has drawn much attention for its own representation of Middle-Earth. Therefore the opinion of one of the LoTR royalty has of course attracted some interest.
Actor Sean Astin is well-known for many noteworthy roles. Starring in some of Hollywood's top blockbusters, he is known for such prominent characters as Mikey in the Goonies and Bob Newby from Stranger Things. However, it was arguably his portrayal of Samwise Gamgee in Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings film trilogy that he made his name. Now he has shared his own review of The Rings of Power series, and he is clearly a fan.
Talking about the new series before its release at the Calgary Expo of 2022, the actor expressed his excitement for the show. Mentioning he had watched the released preview, Astin states it specifically "gave him chills." The LoTR actor also discussed how he was not surprised at its high quality considering the amount Amazon has spent on the show to make it. Astin seems to be highly anticipating the series.
He did not say specifically how much of the show he had seen so far, only stating he had watched a preview. However, it is possible such a prominent figure of the franchise, could have received special privileges to view the first part of the series early. We know it was available for a few individuals and reviewers before its global release back in early September.
As well as his personal feelings about the show itself, he also shared sentiments of what he hopes the series will bring to fans. Clearly showing his support for the show's interpretation of Tolkien's works. As Astin puts it, there will be one or two entire generations who will be brand new to the franchise. And new series, like The Rings of Power, is a way for these demographics to be introduced to Tolkien's works once more. And by extension, maybe rediscover his own version of LoTR.
While discussing on the panel his thoughts on another individual going on to also play Samwise, Astin seemed at peace with the idea of a new actor and versions of the character coming to life in the future.
He humbly said, "Forever, I'm just one Samwise, there will be many, many Samwises to carry the torch of the ideas, the language, and the heart of that character".
Even after his time as Sam is over, he is still showing his undying support for Frodo and all versions of Middle-Earth it seems. Whether it involves him, or the entirely new set of characters in The Rings of Power.