The Rings of Power showrunner Patrick McKay has reflected on the divisive fan opinion to the first two seasons – and how the Lord of the Rings show is finding its feet more and more in season 3.
"We would be bad at our job if we didn't care somewhat what people think of it, but that doesn't mean that they're suddenly in charge," McKay told SFX magazine in the latest issue.
"We listen to what people say, and we want people to love it, but we are our hardest, harshest critics. What's working and what's not working, we're going to learn from. We're getting more confident in our storytelling, and in season three, we feel like the show has hit its stride."
One of the most expensive series ever made, Rings of Power dives into Middle-earth's Second Age to chart Sauron's rise to power.
The first two seasons were well received by critics (84 and 85% respectively on Rotten Tomatoes), but didn't always strike a chord with fans – with some suggesting it strayed too far from the spirit of J.R.R. Tolkien's works. The upcoming "orc with an arc" might not convince them, but the new trailer has plenty of Middle-earth mainstays, including Sauron going toe-to-toe with the Balrog.
Still, The Rings of Power season 3 first reactions have proved overwhelmingly positive as we approach November's release.
The Rings of Power season 3 is streaming on Prime Video from November 11.
For more, we have a guide on how to watch the Lord of the Rings movies in order.
