The Wheel of Time Season 2: Exciting Insights from Mat, Elayne & Perrin Actors in this Enchanting World

Summary

The Wheel of Time season 2 explores the character of Perrin in more depth, delving into his struggles with his identity and his views on violence and warfare.

Donal Finn, the actor cast as Mat for season 2, crafted a comprehensive backstory by drawing insights from the character's evolution in the previous season and delving into the books to grasp his essence and point of view.

Ceara Coveney, the actress embodying Elayne, cherishes her beneficial interactions with fans and senses a duty to faithfully animate the character. She also entrusts that fans will embrace her depiction wholeheartedly.

Prime Video’s The Wheel of Time is back, bringing Robert Jordan’s legendary fantasy series once again to the small screen. Rafe Judkins, the creator of Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., along with bestselling fantasy author Brandon Sanderson, have joined forces to continue The Wheel of Time saga after Jordan's passing. This epic story revolves around Rand al’Thor, a young farmer who discovers his extraordinary power to either save or destroy the world. Following the highly anticipated first season in 2021, fans of the novels and series alike have been eagerly awaiting the arrival of season 2.

While Rand al'Thor remains a central figure in The Wheel of Time season 2, the series is known for its vast array of well-developed characters. Returning characters include Mat and Perrin, alongside the introduction of Elayne Trakand, one of the most significant players in the entire series. Despite viewers' familiarity with Mat from the first season, this time he is portrayed by newcomer Donal Finn, while Ceara Coveney brings a fresh perspective to the role of Elayne. As always, Marcus Rutherford once again delivers a stellar performance as Perrin.

Marcus Rutherford, Ceara Coveney, and Donal Finn engaged in a conversation with Screen Rant regarding their character exploration, immersion into the expansive world of The Wheel of Time, and more. Note: The interview occurred prior to the SAG-AFTRA strike in 2023, emphasizing that the existence of the show under discussion is indebted to the dedicated efforts of the writers and actors affiliated with the WGA and SAG-AFTRA.

Marcus Rutherford, Ceara Coveney & Donal Finn Talk The Wheel of Time Season 2

Screen Rant: Did Perrin's character in the books heavily focus on his struggle to embrace the various aspects of his nature? Is this an important element of his storyline in the current season?

In season two, the characters in The Wheel of Time are separated, allowing for Marcus Rutherford's character, Perrin, to have individual experiences. Throughout the season, Perrin encounters various characters who introduce him to new abilities and powers, particularly his connection with animals. Furthermore, as the season progresses, Perrin's encounters with certain characters force him to contemplate his thoughts and beliefs surrounding violence and warfare. He grapples with the question of whether avoiding these elements is even possible or if they are inherent to the world of The Wheel of Time and within himself. Unlike season one where Perrin primarily grieved and remained withdrawn, season two allows for a deeper exploration of his character.

Donal, I can't imagine how challenging it must have been for you to join the second season of this show. However, your performance was so seamless that it felt like you had been part of it since the beginning. How did you prepare for this role?

Donal Finn: The best preparation method was to fully immerse myself in the work and not dwell on the potential difficulties, as you mentioned. Fortunately, season one hadn't been released yet when I started working on my character, so I had the opportunity to develop him without any preconceived notions. This allowed for a natural continuity between Mat in season one and season two, which I believe is quite special. I utilized all the material from season one to create a backstory for Mat and to understand how he reaches the point where I encounter him in season two. I feel fortunate that the writers provided me with that backstory, as actors often have to create it themselves.

Using the books, I portrayed everything else and captured the essence of this guy's spirit - his unique perspective on the world and his desire to involve his friends in moments of crisis, tension, and struggle. He strives to lighten the situation with humor or an appreciation for the present moment. I am genuinely glad that there is a connection between Mat in season one and season two. It is a testament to the brilliance of the character and the bold qualities present in the text that everyone can relate to.

Ceara, your casting announcement feels like it happened a long time ago. People are eagerly anticipating your portrayal of Elayne in this show. Have you engaged with the fandom and individuals over the past year and a half? Did this interaction influence your understanding of the character?

Ceara Coveney: I've had incredible interactions with the fans, especially when I was brought out at New York Comic Con last year. The reception was absolutely amazing. They played an exclusive clip featuring the first scene where we meet Elaine. Backstage, I could hear the fans' live reactions to every line I said, and it meant so much to them. It has been a truly special experience.

Although it feels like my announcement was a while ago, I am eagerly looking forward to fans finally seeing it. In the beginning, I felt the weight of responsibility to do justice to the role of Elayne and make everyone proud. But over time, I have developed a strong connection with Elayne, and I have faith that fans will adore her.

About The Wheel Of Time Season 2

Based on the popular Robert Jordan fantasy series, The Wheel of Time, a humble farm boy named Rand al’Thor discovers that he is The Dragon Reborn, a historically significant and potentially world-saving individual. However, there are forces seeking to stop him, and a group of powerful women must come to terms with his growing power and declining mental state to protect him from the Dark One. As the Wheel of Time continues to turn, the ultimate battle draws near.

Despite Rand's belief that he had vanquished the Dark One, evil still persists in the world. In the second season, both new and ancient threats emerge, targeting the young friends from the Two Rivers who are now dispersed across the globe. The woman who once guided them can no longer assist, forcing them to seek out alternative sources of strength. They must rely on each other, themselves, the forces of good, or even the forces of evil.

Check out our other The Wheel of Time season 2 interviews here:

Zoë Robins

Daniel Henney & Madeleine Madden

Josha Stradowski

The Wheel of Time season 2 premieres September 1 on Prime Video.

Source: Screen Rant Plus