Galadriel’s unexpected kiss with Elrond in Season 2 of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power caught fans off guard, sparking debates about its significance. During the penultimate episode, viewers observed Galadriel’s tender moment with Elrond, popping eyes nationwide as they speculated whether this hinted at a romantic turn. However, this pivotal scene served a strategic purpose—Galadriel received a cloak pin from Elrond that aided her escape. Despite many viewers raising eyebrows and questioning the deviation from Tolkien’s lore, the show’s creators and stars have provided clarity on their intentions.
Critics and fans alike have seen The Rings of Power frequently straddle the delicate line between creative license and Tolkien’s original writings. The kiss wasn’t intended to be a romantic plot twist, explained both actor Morfydd Clark and showrunners Patrick McKay and JD Payne. Clarifying the moment’s intention, they suggest it was a demonstration of platonic affection and solidarity in Elf culture. According to an interview with ScreenRant, Morfydd Clark envisioned Elves as beings who express affection with less conventional boundaries compared to humans—a perspective she finds "ultimately an act of love and admiration, but in a platonic manner."
Patrick McKay assured fans, stating, "to our minds, the kiss is not romantic in nature." Instead, Elrond was driven by a blend of fear for Galadriel’s predicament and a culmination of emotions, introspection, and realization that emerged organically from their growing bond throughout the season.
Rings of Power’s Cinematic Universe
In the context of Tolkien’s expansive universe, the idea of a romantic narrative between Galadriel and Elrond sparked lively discussions, especially considering Galadriel’s canonical marriage to Celeborn and Elrond’s future with her daughter, Celebrían. According to ScreenRant, this narrative move was likely to stir contention. Devout Tolkien enthusiasts already wary of lore adjustments had more fuel for their debates, but the creators artfully navigated these waters without plunging into unwelcome territory.
While The Rings of Power excels in production quality and imaginative storytelling, it periodically faces criticism for taking liberties with Middle-earth lore. This controversial kiss was one plot point that tread very close to attracting more ire rather than applause. Analysts and fans agree that introducing a romantic subplot between these two iconic figures would have signified a substantial departure from established canon—one not all fans were ready to embrace.
Closing Credits
As this fantasy epic forges ahead into its third season, the creative team behind The Rings of Power will need to tread carefully to avoid potential pitfalls that could draw further criticism. Showrunners McKay and Payne must fuse compelling narratives with respect for Tolkien’s world—a balancing act that both challenges and intrigues. As Galadriel and Elrond’s story evolves, the hope is fans remain enchanted rather than enraged. Season 3 will likely reveal whether creators maintain this balance or diverge significantly from Tolkien’s conceptual path. Viewers will certainly be watching, analyzing, and ready to voice their opinions on future developments in this carefully crafted television journey.
