Part 2/8:
Mainstream media initially ran protective coverage, seemingly willing to overlook the show’s glaring flaws. Fans, many of whom treasured Tolkien’s original works, quickly expressed their disapproval, feeling the series betrayed the lore and spirit of Middle-earth. The negative reception was so overwhelming that, by the end of Season 1, reports emerged indicating that only about 37% of viewers finished the entire season. Despite the show's astronomical budget and massive promotional push, it turned into a colossal failure.