Frodo, Gollum and Rings of Power Season 3: Three Replacements Officially Confirmed
A trio with familiar echoes
Speaking to IGN during a 2025 set visit, co-showrunner Patrick McKay compared Galadriel, Arondir and Marnûkh to Frodo, Sam and Gollum. He said the three characters’ relationships will shape a significant part of the upcoming season.
McKay described Galadriel as more willing to consider Marnûkh’s claims. Her uneasy respect for Adar, he explained, has made her more open to hearing what the Orc has to say.
Arondir remains suspicious
Arondir has a different response. His past encounters with Orcs have been painful, including the killing of the woman he loved, so he believes Marnûkh may be lying.
The set visit included scenes of Galadriel and Arondir escorting Marnûkh. The Orc claims he knows where Sauron can find the final element he needs to locate the One Ring, but the characters have no assurance that his account is true.
Marnûkh’s motives in question
McKay said uncertainty about Marnûkh’s loyalty will be part of the season’s journey, with twists along the way. He also noted that Sauron will be able to control the Orcs, as well as others, through the One Ring.
Adam Young, who plays Marnûkh, told IGN that viewers should question the Orc’s intentions too. He described the character as a “wizard with words,” and the report says Arondir will not appreciate his talkative nature.
Why the comparison fits
The parallel to the film trio centers on differing levels of trust. Galadriel’s history with Adar makes her more receptive to Marnûkh, while Arondir’s experiences leave him hostile toward the Orc.
As with Sam’s distrust of Gollum, Arondir is expected to remain wary of his new companion. Marnûkh’s true purpose, and whether he is acting for himself or Sauron, will remain a question in the season.
Key points
- McKay compared Galadriel, Arondir and Marnûkh to Frodo, Sam and Gollum.
- Galadriel may be more willing than Arondir to hear Marnûkh out.
- Marnûkh claims to know where Sauron can find what he needs for the One Ring.
- The season will leave viewers questioning whether Marnûkh is an ally or serving Sauron.