Simon Pegg steps into a Lord of the Rings role in The Rings of Power

The world of Middle-earth is getting a major expansion, and the excitement is building for The Rings of Power as it prepares for its next chapter.

Recent announcements from SDCC 2026 unveiled a brand new trailer, setting the stage for a season brimming with newly revealed characters and epic lore. Beyond the visual spectacle, the casting choices promise to deepen the mythology of the Elves and their adversaries.

One of the most anticipated reveals involves a terrifying returning force: the Balrog. This legendary creature, which claimed King Durin’s life in the previous season, is set to return to the forefront, and it will finally be voiced for the first time by Simon Pegg, lending a powerful new voice to the beast from the Mines of Moria.

This major return signals that the Balrog will undoubtedly play a significant role in the unfolding events of season 3, emphasizing the deep history and danger lurking within Middle-earth.

Adding depth to the ensemble are several fascinating new additions to the cast. Eddie Marsan joins as Thrain, Durin IV’s older brother, while Andrew Richardson steps into the role of Anarion, Elendil’s son and Isildur’s brother. Also joining the ranks is Adam Young as Marnûkh, an Orc whose identity remains deliberately shrouded in mystery—a “mysterious Orc who may not be what he seems.”

The story also features established figures returning to expand the lore, including Jamie Campbell Bower as Celeborn, who embodies a profound yearning for something lost. Bower described his character’s struggle, noting the pervasive idea of longing in Tolkien’s relationship with Edith and their separation.

Further enriching the narrative are Zubin Varla as Khamûl the Easterling of Rhûn, bringing new perspectives to the conflict, alongside the previously known character of Zubin Varla as Khamûl the Easterling of Rhûn.

The saga will be released on Prime Video this November 11 with a staggered release schedule: four episodes dropping simultaneously, followed by episodes five and six on November 18, and the remaining two episodes landing on November 25. Fans of epic fantasy are in for a treat as they await these developments.