Remember that Galadriel & Elrond’s Kiss in ‘The Rings of Power’? Showrunners Finally Explained It

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As a gamer who has spent countless hours immersed in Middle-earth, I must confess that the kiss between Galadriel and Elrond left me somewhat bewildered. While I can appreciate the desire to explore new aspects of Tolkien’s world, this particular moment felt like a departure from the source material that was, at times, jarring.

In the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, Galadriel and Elrond are powerful allies and maintain a deep connection as influential Elven leaders. Galadriel is related to Elrond through marriage, as her daughter Celebrían is wed to him, making Galadriel his mother-in-law. They collaborate extensively in their efforts to safeguard Middle-earth, primarily through the use of their roles as keepers of the Elven Rings of Power.

In my opinion, as a devoted fan, the series added a touch of romantic tension to their dynamic when they shared a passionate kiss during the second-to-last episode, with Galadriel being held captive by Adar. Initially, I assumed that the kiss was merely a clever ruse for Elrond to help Galadriel break free from her confinement, but it appears that the creators had a different intention in mind.

According to Morfydd Clark and the showrunners Patrick McKay and JD Payne, the kiss wasn’t meant to express romantic feelings but rather symbolized respect and loyalty instead.

Morfydd Clark stated that she envisioned Elves expressing affection through kisses in a distinctive, non-romantic manner that reflects their unique cultural norms. She underscored that the strong connection between Elrond and Galadriel was built on respect, loyalty, and a deep friendship spanning centuries, rather than on romantic feelings.

Morfydd Clark expressed her initial desire for the elves to share passionate kisses throughout their interactions from the start. She viewed these moments as a profound expression of love and adoration, but in a non-romantic sense. And she found it intriguing. The scene, to human observers, seemed surprisingly romantic.

I find it intriguing to imagine elves traversing the world in a unique, somewhat bohemian fashion, and my reaction was quite an exclamation of surprise and delight, something like “Wow, that’s cool!” However, the concept that romantic love is the ultimate, paramount type of love isn’t a belief I fully embrace, although it’s undeniably captivating.

Moreover, it’s important to note that love comes in various forms, and the profound affection shared between Elrond and Galadriel – a bond built over millennia, characterized by mutual respect, loyalty, and deep admiration – is an example of such beauty that leaves me captivated.

As Patrick McKay, I clarified that the kiss between Elrond and Galadriel wasn’t a romantic gesture, but rather a heartfelt expression of love, regret, and apology. It’s not hinting at a budding romance, but just one of the many unconventional ways elves show affection towards each other.

As a gamer putting myself in the character’s shoes, I can tell you it’s not about a romantic kiss, but rather a desperate move born out of love and fear. He’s terrified she might perish, so he devises this kiss to distract her and help her escape her bindings. It’s his way of showing love, regret for past misunderstandings, and a silent apology for not fully appreciating her arguments earlier in the season.

It developed naturally from the content, and seemed to take its own direction. However, it doesn’t suggest a romantic relationship between these friends in the future. And remember, elves show affection differently than humans do.

Payne joked that the elves were a bit more European hinting that this is a thing in Europe:

JD Payne: They’re a little more European.

Patrick McKay: Yes, yes, a little more European. [Chuckles]

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Regardless of the reasons for the kiss, it was certainly an unusual scene, adding fuel to the fire for critics who argue that the show frequently deviates from its original sources and facts.

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2024-12-07 11:44