Fans of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power can expect a shift in focus when Season 3 arrives. Co-showrunner J.D. Payne confirmed that the often-divisive Harfoot storyline will take a “backseat” to make room for other major developments in Middle-earth.

While the Harfoots may not feature in a central capacity this season, Payne teased that the door isn’t closed on them entirely, stating, “never count a Halfling out.” Season 3 is set to premiere on November 11, 2026, with a focus on Sauron’s quest for power, the introduction of Celeborn, and the evolution of Gandalf.