Reddit Spots a Massive Halbrand Plot Hole in The Rings of Power
Add this one to the huge list of plot holes in this show.
The Rings of Power finale has finally unveiled the truth behind Halbrand and how he was indeed Sauron in disguise all this time. In fact, he has been acting suspicious for the entire episode, prompting Galadriel to look more closely into the history of his royal roots.
What she found there was not something she enjoyed. It turns out there was no actual king of the Southlands as she (and the Southlanders) believed. Instead, Galadriel found out that the royal line was broken 1000 years ago with no heirs.
That's when Halbrand revealed that he was Sauron, casting several illusions on Galadriel and even trying to lure her on his side. When she refused, he apparently tried to drown her.
However, there is one issue about the sudden revelation, spotted by Redditor Bemeup57.
"So why then after the battle when Miriel tells the Southlanders that Halbrand is their king, why don't the people look confused and say "hey, our royal family died off a thousand years ago." Wouldn't they know about their own royal family?" the fan wondered.
It's a legit question that makes the Halbrand revelation look like yet another plot hole in The Rings of Power. Still, some fans tried to explain the weird inconsistency.
"Because the Southlanders don't have records, they only have oral history, and have a mythic desire for a return to greatness. Many many nations and peoples have traditional myths where one day, their Hero will return in their time of need to return them to greatness. King Arthur, Constantine XIII etc," Redditor Kiltmanenator argued.
This explanation could actually work, especially if one takes into consideration that desperate Southlanders were craving a leader.
"To me, it seemed less of a "oh good, the prophesied King has been found and more" "oh good, here's someone willing to take charge of this hot mess" from all parties," another Redditor noted.
If it is indeed a plot hole, it would not be the first error spotted by fans in The Rings of Power. The show has drawn a lot of criticism for its writing and means of storytelling, as well as character development. However, it was praised for stunning visuals and impeccable production.
Amazon views The Rings of Power as a story that could be developed into at least five seasons. The work on season 2 has already started, with the premiere date to be clarified later.