Part 8/10:
At the heart of the declining interest is a fundamental issue: the series' deliberate divergence from Tolkien’s original lore. Many fans argue that the showrunners prioritized their own political and social narratives over faithful storytelling. This approach has alienated long-time Tolkien enthusiasts who felt their beloved universe was being distorted and appropriated for modern agendas—what some have labeled as fanfiction rather than authentic adaptation.
Such missteps have not only damaged the perception of the series but also eroded trust and loyalty among the most dedicated audience segments. As a result, the series that once held promise as an epic high-budget adaptation now risks fading into obscurity unless significant changes are undertaken.