Actor demands on-set therapist due to racist backlash on ‘Rings of Power’.

Actor Ismael Cruz Córdova Gets Support on Set of LOTR

The therapist is slated to help the actor deal with an onslaught of racist backlash since he was cast on the Amazon Prime series.

Ismael Cruz Córdova, who stars as Arondir in The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, has revealed that a therapist has been hired on set to support him. In a podcast interview with Variety, Córdova spoke at length about the hire and how it has helped him deal with the racist backlash he has received since being cast as the first person of color to play an elf.

Dealing with Racist Backlash

Córdova has received death threats, unwanted mail, and attempted hacks into his phone, PayPal, and bank accounts. The psychological and mental health impact of this has been significant, and the therapist has been a crucial source of support for him.

“You need support when this happens because the voices are so loud, and they’re coming at you from so many places,” Córdova said.

He also shared that the therapist’s presence alone is a reminder that someone is there to support him and see him completely.

Making History

Córdova has been driven by a desire to make history and challenge the historical portrayal of elves as white and Aryan. As a mountain boy from Puerto Rico who loves nature, he knew that playing an elf would be a significant role for him.

“I was not going to take a ‘no’ for an answer because I knew what this role would entail. I knew what it would do in the scope of fantasy. I knew that I wanted to be part of something historic, especially with the elves. I wanted to be an elf. I was a mountain boy [who grew up in Puerto Rico]. I was in love with nature, and I knew it would change things.”

He has received support from fellow LOTR star Elijah Wood, who tweeted a photo of himself wearing a shirt with elf ears of all different skin colors and the caption “You Are All Welcome Here.”

Supporting Each Other

Córdova’s experience highlights the importance of support and the impact that racism and discrimination can have on mental health. It is essential to support each other and challenge harmful stereotypes and attitudes.

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