As we pass the halfway mark of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power Season 2, the world of Middle-earth is embroiled in chaos and power struggles. The show continues to reveal new layers of intrigue, and Episode 6 moves several key plot points forward.
Villains grow up so fast, don’t they? We went from forging the Three Rings to starting work on the Nine, and the stakes are higher than ever. Let’s go into the episode as our characters deal with looming threats and rapidly unfolding events.
A Dark and Tense Opening in Mordor
The episode begins with Arondir (Ismael Cruz Cordova) deep in the woods near Mordor. He is keeping his promise to track down the elusive Adar (Sam Hazeldine) and his Orc army. Mordor, which is slowly becoming the dark heart of Middle-earth, serves as the backdrop for Arondir’s dangerous quest.
The atmosphere is eerie, and danger lurks in every shadow. The cinematography effectively portrays the growing darkness around the land, reflecting the ominous transformation of this once relatively neutral territory into the stronghold of evil we know it will become.
Arondir doesn’t need to search for long before he encounters a group of deserting Orcs. The Orcs, complaining about Adar’s obsessive search for Sauron, pass close by Arondir’s hiding spot. A third Orc discovers him, but before the creature can raise the alarm, Arondir quickly dispatches him.
This scene is a reminder of Arondir’s deadly skills and his determination to stop Adar’s plans. In one of the Orc’s pockets, Arondir finds a rough sketch of Eregion, which provides the first clue to Adar’s larger plans.
Adar’s hunt for Sauron isn’t just a matter of power; it’s personal. He’s searching for the Dark Lord, someone who both betrayed him and empowered him.
Still from Rings of Power (Credit: Prime Video)
The show’s goes into Adar’s fractured relationship with Sauron provides fascinating insights into the motivations of this enigmatic character, but it also raises the stakes for the entire season. It’s clear that Adar wants to secure his place in the world, and Sauron stands in his way.
Trouble Brewing in Eregion
Meanwhile, in the elven city of Eregion, Celebrimbor (Charles Edwards) is facing his own set of challenges. As one of the most skilled Elven smiths, Celebrimbor is under immense pressure to complete the forging of the Nine Rings of Power. However, things are not going according to plan.
The process of forging these powerful artifacts has hit a roadblock, and Celebrimbor’s frustration is evident as he lashes out at his fellow smiths.
The Nine Rings, as readers of Tolkien’s works know, are critical to the balance of power in Middle-earth. They are destined for mortal kings, and they will ultimately be corrupted by Sauron, turning their bearers into the Nazgûl, the terrifying Ringwraiths. Knowing the fate of these rings adds an additional layer of tension to the scenes in Eregion.
Mirdania (Amelia Kenworthy), one of the Elven smiths working under Celebrimbor, notes that he has seemed increasingly irritable lately. Celebrimbor’s obsession with the rings is consuming him, and his inability to even recall Mirdania’s name alarms her.
Annatar, who is secretly Sauron in disguise, arrives at this moment and orders the other smiths to take a break, allowing him some time alone with Celebrimbor.
The interaction between Annatar and Celebrimbor is steeped in manipulation. Sauron, in his guise as Annatar, is playing a long game, subtly influencing Celebrimbor’s thoughts and actions. Celebrimbor confides in Annatar that he is struggling to stay focused and is beginning to lose track of time.
Annatar attributes this to Celebrimbor being in a creative “groove” and encourages him to continue forging the rings. The dialogue here is dripping with subtext, as Sauron carefully plants seeds of doubt and dependence in Celebrimbor’s mind.
Celebrimbor refuses to meet with the people of Eregion, insisting that his only responsibility at the moment is to the rings. This scene highlights the beginning of Celebrimbor’s descent into obsession, a key element in the downfall of Eregion.
Still from Rings of Power (Credit: Prime Video)
Annatar takes control of the situation, addressing the people of Eregion himself and asserting his authority. The cracks in Eregion’s leadership are becoming increasingly visible, and it’s only a matter of time before the consequences of Celebrimbor’s decisions come to the forefront.
Mirdania’s curiosity about the message carved on the chest of the returned soldier adds another layer of mystery to the episode. The chilling message, “Where is He?” is a reminder of Sauron’s looming presence, even as he hides in plain sight as Annatar.
Adar and Galadriel’s Uneasy Truce
In one of the episode’s most intense sequences, we find Galadriel (Morfydd Clark) and Adar having a tense conversation over dinner in Adar’s camp. The two characters are natural enemies, but here they find themselves in a strange and uneasy truce.
Adar, who has his own vendetta against Sauron, recognizes Galadriel’s obsession with finding the Dark Lord. Their conversation touches on themes of corruption and power, with Adar suggesting that Sauron’s influence has tainted Galadriel’s mind.
Adar, despite being an antagonist, presents himself as more than just a villain. His deep connection with the Orcs, whom he refers to as his “children,” humanizes him to some extent.
He sees them not just as minions, but as beings worthy of protection and freedom from Sauron’s control. This adds complexity to his character, as he isn’t simply serving evil for the sake of it; he has his own reasons for opposing Sauron.
The scene’s cinematography enhances the tension. Dutch angles — where the camera is tilted to create a sense of disorientation — make the audience feel as unsettled as Galadriel does. The shift between straight shots and these tilted angles gives the entire exchange a dreamlike, off-kilter quality, heightening the sense that something is deeply wrong.
Adar reveals that he needs the power of the Three Elven Rings combined with Morgoth’s crown to destroy Sauron once and for all. His knowledge of Halbrand’s true identity as Sauron adds another layer of intrigue to the plot, though Galadriel is reluctant to confirm this.
Still from Rings of Power (Credit: Prime Video)
This dinner scene not only provides more insight into Adar’s motivations, but it also hints at the growing internal conflict within Galadriel. She is torn between her duty to Middle-earth and the temptation to use Sauron’s power to achieve her goals. The episode leaves viewers questioning whether Galadriel will be able to resist the corrupting influence of the rings.
Tensions in Númenor: Elendil on Trial
While the drama unfolds in Middle-earth, Númenor is dealing with its own political upheaval. Elendil (Lloyd Owen), one of the kingdom’s most respected captains, is on trial for inciting a riot and high treason.
Pharazôn (Trystan Gravelle), who has been steadily consolidating power, presides over the trial and declares that Elendil’s crimes warrant death. However, Elendil’s years of service to the kingdom earn him a chance to avoid execution, provided he pledges loyalty to Pharazôn.
Elendil’s trial is a key turning point for Númenor. His refusal to recognize Pharazôn as king, instead declaring Miriel as the rightful ruler, sets up a clash between the Faithful — those who still honor the Valar and their ways — and the growing faction of Pharazôn’s supporters who seek to break away from these ancient traditions. Elendil’s defiance shows his unwavering commitment to what is right, even if it costs him his life.
The trial also deepens the personal conflict between Elendil and his daughter Eärien (Ema Horvath), who has allied herself with Pharazôn’s faction.
As Elendil faces the possibility of death, Eärien begins to realize that she may have chosen the wrong side. Her growing doubt about Pharazôn’s leadership adds complexity to her character and sets up an interesting dynamic for future episodes.
Lord Belzagar’s suggestion that Elendil’s fate should be decided by the Valar through a Trial by Abyss adds an element of mythic grandeur to the scene. Númenor’s reverence for the sea and the Valar’s influence over it is a central theme in Tolkien’s lore, and this trial serves as a reminder of the kingdom’s deep connection to the divine.
The Stranger’s Struggle: A Trial of Fire
Meanwhile, in a remote valley, the Stranger (Daniel Weyman) is undergoing his own trial, though of a very different nature. His meditation session with Tom Bombadil (Rory Kinnear) turns into a harrowing vision of Nori (Markella Kavenaugh) and Poppy (Megan Richards) in grave danger.
Still from Rings of Power (Credit: Prime Video)
The Stranger, who has been struggling to understand his place in Middle-earth, seeks guidance from Tom Bombadil, who tells him that the Secret Fire can show him things if he only learns to listen.
The Secret Fire, a mysterious concept in Tolkien’s legendarium, represents the creative force that sustains life and the world itself. The Stranger’s journey to master it is a metaphor for his internal struggle — he must decide whether to use his power to protect or to destroy.
The Stranger is faced with a decision: does he abandon his trial to save Nori, or does he continue his path toward understanding his power? The emotional weight of this decision is palpable, as it reflects the broader theme of the episode — the balance between personal desires and the greater good.
The sun rises over the wide Fijian sea, casting a warm glow on the calm waters. Waves gently roll onto the pristine white sandy beach, the sound of their movement harmonizing with the soft rustling of palm trees. The beauty of the view hides the immense hardships that are about to unfold.
Somewhere in the distance, the familiar voice of Jeff Probst rings out, signaling the return of a show that fans have eagerly been waiting for: Survivor.
This reality series, created by Charlie Parsons, brings together a group of strangers who must battle not only the harsh conditions of the island but also each other, all for the ultimate reward of $1,000,000.
Every season pushes the contestants to their limits, with each person striving to outlast and outplay the others to win the coveted title of “Sole Survivor.”
As this new season begins, excitement fills the air as all the contestants arrive on the same boat. They take this moment to size each other up, giving both the audience and fellow competitors a view into what makes them unique and potentially dangerous in the game.
Right from the start, the audience is introduced to a diverse range of cast members. Tiyana Hallums stands out as the first Native Hawaiian to compete on Survivor, bringing a sense of pride and representation to the game.
Jon Lovett, on the other hand, enters the competition armed with his experience as a co-host of the popular podcast Pod Save America. Each contestant brings their own unique background and personality to the game, creating a dynamic mix of competitors that promises a season filled with twists and turns.
The contestants gather on the beach for their first group chat with Jeff Probst, sharing their excitement and enthusiasm about the adventure ahead.
However, Probst doesn’t let the upbeat mood last long, as he quickly reminds everyone that the competition is fierce and the challenges they will face are intense. Before they know it, the first challenge is upon them. But before we go into the action, we get a closer look at the three tribal divisions for this season:
- Tuku (Blue Tribe): Caroline Vidmar, Kyle Ostwald, Gabe Ortis, Tiyana Hallums, Sue Smey, and Terran “TK” Foster
- Gata (Yellow Tribe): Andy Rueda, Anika Dhar, Sierra Wright, Sam Phalen, Jon Lovett, Rachel LaMont
- Lavo (Red Tribe): Aysha Welch, Solomon “Sol” Yi, Genevieve Mushaluk, Teeny Chirichillo, Kishan Patel, and Rome Cooney
Survivor’s Challenges Heat Up
Survivor is known for its physically and mentally exhausting challenges, which often push players to their breaking points. Season 47 is no different, as it kicks off with a demanding challenge that sees the tribes racing under a muddy net and plunging into the jungle to retrieve heavy blocks.
Still from Survivor 47 (Credit: Paramount+)
They must then bring these blocks back and work together to assemble a giant puzzle. In the end, despite falling behind early on, the Gata tribe pulls ahead and wins the challenge. Their reward is a basic Survivor kit, which includes essential tools like a pot, machete, and flint.
These items are crucial for survival, especially during the early days of the game. The tribes that fall short, however, are forced to make a difficult decision: they must send one of their own on a mystery journey with the possibility of bringing back supplies for their camp.
Aysha from the Lavo tribe and TK from the Tuku tribe are selected for this task and are transported to a separate island. There, they face a new challenge—using clues to find three hidden keys in the jungle. These keys will unlock a box containing the much-needed survival tools.
Both players put in a solid effort, but it’s TK who ultimately finds the final key and returns victorious to his tribe with the necessary supplies. Back at their respective camps, the contestants start forming alliances and establishing early bonds.
These connections could make or break their game, and every interaction counts. TK’s return to the Tuku camp brings joy and optimism to his tribe, and the members seem to rally around him.
Meanwhile, Gabe, another member of Tuku, sees an opportunity in working with Sue, an older player. The two quickly form a bond, and their partnership begins to pay off when Gabe stumbles upon a “Beware Advantage” while building the tribe’s shelter.
Advantage-Hunting Begins
Gabe’s advantage hunt sets off a chain of events that could drastically change the game. The “Beware Advantage” leads him on a complex search for lockboxes, keys, and pieces of driftwood. In the end, Gabe manages to secure an Immunity Idol.
This particular Idol is good for three tribal councils, but if Gabe plays his cards right, he could potentially upgrade it into one that would last until the final five. Though TK catches Gabe in the middle of his search, Gabe keeps his newfound advantage a secret from the rest of the tribe.
Unfortunately for Lavo’s Rome, his approach is not so discreet. Eager to find any advantage he can, Rome immediately starts searching the island for clues. After finding a lead, he digs around in a well and, ignoring his tribe’s attempts to bond with him, secures a one-tribal Immunity Idol.
Still from Survivor 47 (Credit: Paramount+)
Like Gabe’s Idol, it has the potential to be upgraded. However, Rome’s single-minded focus on hunting for the advantage and his lack of social connection with his tribe make him a target. Aysha even jokes, “Hello, Mr. Gamer,” reflecting the tribe’s growing concern that Rome might become a dangerous player if left unchecked.
Anxiety and Alliances
While the Red and Blue tribes are busy searching for clues and forming alliances, the Yellow tribe has its own challenges to face. Andy, a member of the Gata tribe, becomes an example of how internal struggles can be just as difficult as the game itself.
Andy opens up about his past experiences as a social outcast, and it quickly becomes clear that these old feelings of isolation are resurfacing. He begins to feel the pressure of the game, and his anxiety starts affecting his behavior.
Andy tries to form an alliance with Jon, pulling him aside for private conversations early in the game. However, his nervous energy becomes more obvious when he wakes Caroline in the middle of the night to vent about his fears, despite only having known her for one day.
Caroline listens but advises Andy that such open displays of emotion may not be the best strategy for survival. While Andy agrees with her, his anxiety continues to grow.
Small things, like his tribe not celebrating his success when he cracks open a coconut, make him feel even more disconnected. The others cheer for Jon when he performs the same task, leaving Andy feeling left out and convinced that he’s already on the chopping block after just 24 hours.
The First Immunity Challenge and a Dramatic Confession
The first immunity challenge of the season is a true test of strength, endurance, and teamwork. The players must swim out to retrieve heavy chests from the water, use a boat to transport them back to shore, and then work together to complete a large puzzle.
Still from Survivor 47 (Credit: Paramount+)
The stakes are high, with two tribal Immunity Idols and toolkits as the rewards. The Lavo tribe emerges as the clear winner, followed closely by Tuku. This leaves the Gata tribe in last place. Exhausted and overheated, Andy walks off to the shade, where he collapses.
Jeff immediately checks on him, and Andy, still convinced that his time in the game is coming to an end, says, “I gave it my all.” The medical team rushes to Andy’s side, diagnosing him with heat exhaustion. After receiving treatment, Andy rejoins his tribe, but the drama is far from over.
In a surprising twist, Andy decides to make a bold confession. He tells the group that he feels his tribe doesn’t like him and reveals that he had considered betraying Jon, his closest ally, as a strategy to stay in the game. This shocking admission leaves the group stunned as they head back to camp, trying to process what just happened.
The First Elimination: Jon Lovett
Survivor is all about knowing when to make your move and when to stay quiet. Jon quickly learns this lesson when he realizes that Andy, despite his earlier talk of betrayal, is still his only ally on the tribe. Together, the two try to flip the vote in Andy’s favor by convincing Sam to target Anika, who has started to establish herself as the tribe leader.
Sam, however, immediately shares this plan with the women of the tribe. The group debates whether Jon or Andy should be the first to go. While Andy has proven to be an emotional wildcard, he also offers physical strength in challenges, something Jon lacks.
The tribe decides that Jon, with his deep knowledge of the game, poses a bigger threat in the long run. Even Andy, who had been part of the plan to target Anika, goes back on the plan to ensure Jon’s elimination. With a 5-1 vote, Jon Lovett becomes the first player to be voted off Survivor 47.
Still from Survivor 47 (Credit: Paramount+)
Every season’s first episode sets the tone for what’s to come, but few premieres are as action-packed and unpredictable as this one.
From multiple advantages being discovered to Andy’s heartfelt confession, the season is off to a dramatic and thrilling start. If the excitement continues at this pace, Survivor 47 could go down as one of the most memorable seasons yet.
Survivor 47 airs on CBS every Wednesday and is available for streaming on Paramount+.
