### "The Rings of Power" Finale Reveals Gandalf’s Identity

The season 2 finale of “The Rings of Power” has finally unmasked its most enigmatic character. Be forewarned; this article includes significant spoilers for episode 8, so ensure you’ve watched it before diving in. The much-speculated identity of the Stranger has been uncovered—he is Gandalf.

For nearly two seasons, viewers have been inundated with clues, and the finale has now settled the debate. In a pivotal encounter, the Stranger faces the Dark Wizard, who intriguingly hints at knowing his real identity by referring to him as an "old friend" and mentioning that there were five of them, nodding to the Istari. However, the Stranger dismisses the Dark Wizard after he jeopardizes the lives of Poppy Proudfellow and Nori Brandyfoot.

Later, the Harfoots and Stores bid farewell to the Stranger, affectionately dubbing him the "grand elf," an unclear moniker that triggers an epiphany within him. Subsequently, he discovers his staff in the Stores' home, realizing that finding them was his destiny. He then sets off across Rhun to reunite with Tom Bombadil.

Upon their reunion in Bombadil's hut, Bombadil philosophically tells him, "A wizard does not find his staff, it finds him, like his name." The Stranger then affirms, "Gandalf, that's what they're going to call me, isn't it?" They conclude the scene by singing Bombadil’s signature song as the camera draws back.

This revelation definitively positions the Stranger as Gandalf, following numerous allusions and a red herring in the season 1 finale. However, this decision has sparked debate among Tolkien enthusiasts since, according to J.R.R. Tolkien's Appendix B, Gandalf did not arrive in Middle-earth until the Third Age, disembarking at the Grey Havens.

“The Rings of Power” appears to be adjusting the established timeline for narrative convenience, as it has done with other characters such as Sauron and Galadriel. While some Tolkien purists may take issue with this deviation, linking Gandalf's early adventures with Tom Bombadil and the Hobbits aligns with his known character. Additionally, it sets him on an inevitable collision course with Sauron, enriching his backstory.

To keep up with further developments in “The Rings of Power,” check out the season 2 reviews and Amazon Prime's selection of top shows.