The Rings of Power’s Dark Wizard reveal was one of the first things the showrunners wanted to do

The Rings of Power showrunners say revealing the Dark Wizard’s identity was among the ideas they wanted to explore from their earliest discussions about the series. The reveal connects the show’s story to the little-explored lore of the Blue Wizards and gives Gandalf’s evolving understanding of his powers a larger role.

Gandalf learns that Ciarán Hinds’ Dark Wizard is Pallando, one of the Blue Wizards sent east to oppose Sauron, whose own murderous ambitions devastate Rhûn. Tolkien’s notes and the posthumously published Unfinished Tales offer only limited detail about the Blue Wizards, leaving their history largely open. Co-showrunner J.D. Payne says the third season develops Gandalf beyond controlling magic, as he discovers a prophetic aspect to himself.