Rings of Power: Tyroe Muhafidin Explains Theo’s Darkest Season 3 Decision

Theo reaches a turning point

Season 3’s fourth episode, “Gundabad,” brings Theo and Arondir together again after they parted in the previous season. Their reunion unfolds amid Theo’s grief over his mother, Bronwyn, and Arondir’s loss of his lover, Bronwyn.

Theo is now under Sauron’s influence and wears a ring. He seeks to capture Galadriel for the Dark Lord. When Arondir steps in, Sauron orders Theo to kill the Elf, and Theo delivers what appears to be a fatal blow.

Muhafidin described the choice as the culmination of Theo’s story so far. He said the character’s path toward becoming a Ring-servant is both beautiful and tragic.

A five-year change in demeanor

The series jumps ahead five years, and Muhafidin said he focused less on making Theo stronger than on showing how worn down he had become. At the time, the actor was 20 and felt youthful, while Theo had become an adult.

Muhafidin worked with a movement coach for about two months to change his physical approach. He said Theo has little hope and is not excited about anything, so he had to alter his body language to reflect that exhaustion.

Desperation and the ring

Sauron’s summons offers rings of power to people who might become Ring-servants. Men are forced to fight one another to the death to claim a ring, putting Theo in a situation that Muhafidin described as all or nothing.

Asked about Theo’s desperation, Muhafidin agreed that the character has reached a point where he has no hope for anything. His comments connect that bleak outlook with the choices that lead to the confrontation with Arondir.