The series «The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power» will be completed in accordance with the original plan. According to The Ankler, Amazon still intends to release all five seasons stipulated in the contract with the heirs of J. R. R. Tolkien, HarperCollins and New Line Cinema.
Initially, it was about 50 episodes, and this plan remains in force. According to sources, Amazon management has already confirmed to the creators that they will be able to bring the story to an end, despite criticism, ambiguous viewing figures and high production costs.
Although, taking into account rights, production and marketing, «The Rings of Power» may become the first series with a total budget of over $1 billion, under the terms of the deal, in the event of early closure, Amazon would have to pay the copyright holders a fine — about $20 million for each unfilmed season. This, it is assumed, puts the company in a situation where it is easier to bring the show to an end than to close it after the third season.
An additional factor remains the support from Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos. At the same time, spin-offs, which were previously rumored, will still not take place due to the high cost.
Production of the third season has already been completed. It will focus on the rise of Sauron and the creation of the One Ring. The premiere is expected in 2026, and new seasons, according to the current schedule, will be released at intervals of approximately two years.