San Diego Comic-Con’s legendary Hall H was rocked by a massive reveal for Middle-earth fans: Jamie Campbell Bower (Stranger Things) has officially joined the cast of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power for Season 3. Bower will portray Celeborn, the long-lost husband of Galadriel. Following the panel, Bower joined Ismael Cruz Córdova to meet with journalists and answer questions regarding his pivotal role in the upcoming season
The reveal was part of a star-studded panel moderated by series star Benjamin Walker (High King Gil-galad), featuring showrunners J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay alongside cast members Cynthia Addai-Robinson, Owain Arthur, Ismael Cruz Córdova, Charlie Vickers, and Daniel Weyman.
Ismael Cruz Córdova and Jaime Campbell Bower on Costume Fittings and Camera Tests
Stepping into the legendary world of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth is no light task. A sentiment echoed by both Jamie Campbell Bower and Ismael Cruz Córdova as they detailed their experiences brought to life by hair and makeup designer Flora Moody.
Bower described his initial costume fittings and first camera tests as an intense emotional high. “It was both incredible and terrifying,” Bower shared. Reflecting on the weight of stepping into a world that carries decades of history and millions of passionate fans worldwide. Seeing himself in full attire for the first time made the reality of the role hit home in a way that felt equal parts daunting and beautiful.
Córdova resonated deeply with the experience. Recalling his own emotional reaction upon first seeing his character come together in front of the mirror. Both actors praised the incredible artistry and painstaking detail put into every piece of wardrobe and prosthetics by the crew, though they couldn’t help but end the discussion with a lighthearted nod to the unmistakable signature of playing an Elven warrior: adjusting to the iconic pointed ears.
Also Happening at SDCC 2026
Paramount+ Steals the Show as SDCC 2026 Kicks Off
Hasbro Kicks Off SDCC with Exclusive First Look at Magic: The Gathering and Star Trek Collab
Hasbro’s Legend of Zelda: Heroes of Hyrule Collection Sneak Peek at SDCC 2026
We Played Nintendo Switch Sports Resort at SDCC
Wētā Workshop Unveils Exclusive Master Jeweller’s Collection at SDCC 2026 Preview Night
San Diego Comic-Con Kicks Off With Preview Night as Adult Swim Brings “Party on The Green”
