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Initially, much attention centered on casting decisions, especially around race and ethnicity. However, now that the series is live, the spotlight has shifted away from casting—only about five percent of discourse—and onto the performances and how closely they adhere to Tolkien's original characters.
Most of the heavy criticism is directed at actress Morfydd Clark, who plays Galadriel, one of Tolkien’s most iconic and ethereal elves. Many fans and critics argue that her portrayal bears little resemblance to the character described in the books and film adaptations. This departs from Tolkien’s depiction of Galadriel as wise, calm, and regal, instead portraying her as aggressive and sometimes overly combative, which many see as a deviation from the source material's spirit.