The Rise of Celebrimbor: From Sidekick to Star
In the vast lore of Middle Earth, Celebrimbor might not have stolen the spotlight in The Rings of Power‘s debut season. This master elven smith, initially portrayed as a supporting character, is set for a dramatic transformation in season two. Edward Charles, who brings Celebrimbor to life, is stepping up from a modest role to becoming a central figure. After his initial three-episode appearance, we caught up with Charles to uncover the journey ahead for this complex character.
Celebrimbor’s Evolution: A Chat with Charles Edwards
Edward Charles always knew Celebrimbor’s significance would grow. The showrunners had assured him that while his role might seem small in season one, the real action was yet to come. Charles wasn’t frustrated by his limited early appearances; he was playing the long game, aware that his character would soon become pivotal.
Charles speaks fondly of his co-star Rob Aramayo and enjoys crafting Celebrimbor’s mysterious persona. The budding partnership between Celebrimbor and Halbrand at the forge hints at the thrilling developments awaiting fans in season two.
Stepping Into the Elf’s Shoes
To prepare for his expanded role, Edwards embraced the unpredictable nature of the storyline. Filming season two scenes was a unique experience for him, especially since he and Charlie Vickers (Halbrand) shot their scenes chronologically. This approach allowed for a more organic development of their characters’ relationship—a rare treat in television.
Season Two: Pride and Predicaments
In season two, Celebrimbor’s growing vulnerability makes him a prime target for Annatar’s schemes. Edwards reveals that Celebrimbor is increasingly susceptible to flattery and manipulation, a dangerous combination under Sauron’s influence.
Celebrimbor’s love for crafting rings stems from Tolkien’s lore, yet the show takes liberties with his character. While traditionally seen as a noble but flawed figure, the series reimagines him as an ambitious, vain elf striving to emulate his grandfather’s glory. This interpretation departs from his rumored love for Galadriel, focusing instead on his pride as his Achilles’ heel.
The Downfall of Pride
Different perspectives from Tolkien’s work depict Celebrimbor as either a meticulous craftsman or a prideful noble. Edwards leans into the former, exploring how Celebrimbor’s obsession with detail and craftsmanship feeds his pride—a dangerous flaw that Sauron exploits.
Falling Into Sauron’s Trap
Galadriel’s warnings about Halbrand go unheeded by Celebrimbor, who feels slighted and ready to rebel. Halbrand, already favored by Celebrimbor, becomes the catalyst for his downfall. Frustrated by the lack of updates on the three rings, Celebrimbor invites Halbrand into his world, unknowingly playing into Sauron’s hands.
Beware the Deceiver
The first three episodes have only scratched the surface of Celebrimbor’s journey. Edwards hints at Celebrimbor’s growing resistance to Annatar and the eventual realization of the deception. Fans should brace for the moment when Celebrimbor’s tragic heroism comes fully into play.
Bonus Q&A
Answering a fun question from co-star Charlie Vickers, Edwards imagines a ring that grants him eternal life, but with a twist—he’s reborn every 80 years as a 45-year-old with no memory of past lives. It seems elves and men share more similarities than one might think!
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