Disney-ABC Domestic Announces “Legend of the Seeker” (LoTS) – Produced by Sam Raimi
San Diego, CA. — July 25, 2008 — The highly-anticipated epic fantasy series, previously known as (working title) “Wizard’s First Rule,” will officially launch as “LoTS,” it was announced yesterday at the 2008 Comic Con International Convention during a panel led by series executive producers Sam Raimi and Rob Tapert. “Legend of the Seeker” combines elements of fantasy, adventure, magic, mystery and romance, shot with the enchanting and exotic New Zealand landscape as its backdrop.
In addition, the executive producers also announced that Bruce Spence, Jay Laga’aia and Craig Parker will join previously announced lead actors Craig Horner (Richard Cypher) and Bridget Regan (Kahlan) in the first-run, scripted weekly series. Bruce Spence (“Mad Max 2” and “The Matrix Revolutions”) portrays Zedd, a wise and powerful old wizard who accompanies Richard and Kahlan on their epic journey; Jay Laga’aia (“Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones” and “Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith”) stars as Chase, a loyal and fearsome member of the Councilor’s Guard; and Craig Parker (“The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring” and “The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers”) plays Darken Rahl, a charismatic bloodthirsty tyrant that Richard must prevent from unleashing an ancient evil that will enslave the world.
From the talented team behind the long-running, successful series “Hercules: The Legendary Journeys” and “Xena: Warrior Princess,” and the studio that produces primetime network hits including “Lost,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Desperate Housewives,” “Ghost Whisperer” and “Army Wives,” the series will kick off with a thrilling two-hour premiere event on November 1, 2008.
“Legend of the Seeker” has been cleared by Disney-ABC Domestic Television in 95% of the country. to date, including all of the top 50 markets. Production on the 22-episodes is currently underway in New Zealand. The one-hour series is based on Terry Goodkind’s book “Wizard’s First Rule” and epic fantasy series “The Sword of Truth.” Goodkind’s popular epic fantasy series are international bestsellers that have been translated into over 20 languages.
“Legend of the Seeker” is produced by ABC Studios, marking their first venture into broadcast syndication. Sam Raimi (“Spider-Man,” “Spider-Man 2,” “Spider-Man 3” and “The Evil Dead”), Rob Tapert (“The Grudge,” “Xena: Warrior Princess,” “Hercules: The Legendary Journeys” and “Cleopatra 2525”), Joshua Donen (“The Quick and the Dead”), Ned Nalle (production executive for “Xena: Warrior Princess” and “Hercules: The Legendary Journeys”) and Kenneth Biller (“Star Trek: Voyager” and “Six Degrees”) serve as executive producers.
Marissa says
I’m a big sword of truth fan, and i’m in the middle of reading the series. I just finished book #6: Faith of the Fallen and when i saw the preview for the T.V. Series i’m really excited to watch it! It brought back all the good memories from the first book. Expecting good things,
Zeddicus Zu’l Zorrander
First Wizard ๐
Dave says
Well, the concept is great….but from what I’ve seen.
The actor playing Richard is boy-band handsome rather than serious-looking, dark handsome. Should have dark brown or black hair….and Khalan is BLONDE for goodness sake.
Michele says
lol, if she is blond in your mind, that’s great, but she is defiantly a brunette ๐
I agree that Richard in my mind is bigger and less boyish than Craig, but maybe we’ll grow into him.
Rage says
I am excited but so far from the trailer not too hopeful.. I dislike overdone special effects. Of course, trailers rarely look anything but cheesy… so here’s hoping. Anyways, Kahlan I thought was supposed to be somewhere between blonde blonde and brown.. like a light brown I believe. Not that the exact shade is important, it just needs to resemble the character enough to not totally distract us and go “Hu?” But.. Chase, black? I’m going “Hu?” right now at that one…
Too bad Christian Bale played Batman.. he would’ve made a great Richard.. except that we would all think of him with black pointy ears after that whenever we watched the show. ^^;;;
Here’s hoping for an AWESOME Cara!
beri says
http://operationgathering.org/RafflePics/CraigAutograph.jpg
Parker is playing Rahl i d rather see even him as Richard then Craig Horner
I think C Evans would make a perfect Richard
http://www.webwombat.com.au/entertainment/movies/images/fantastic4-chris-evans-1.jpg
Rahl are suposed to be tall and blond
RIchard is suposed to be tall with a raptor gaze
CAST is the worst misskast i ve ever seen
well Kahlan may pull it off
jenny bc says
yeah in my mind kahlan is blond.. with a powerful hazel eyes… hmmmm.. longer hair… hair is an important element in the world they’re in.. hope these characters could meet up the expectations of the faithful readers of The Sword of Truth.. hoping…
hhmmmm hope it turns out well…
i envisioned richard as a bigger man with strong features… he was a woodsguide before he became Richard Rahl!
hope it would turn out well…
Josh says
Well I agree with the general gist of most of these post. I don’t know that Craig Horner is old enough to pull off Richard but then again you have to remeber that Richard is only supposed to be in his early to mid twenties so who knows. As for Zed the trailer makes him look like to much of dark character. Zed is the comic reliefe in these books most of the time. While Bridget Regan doesn’t exactly fit my vision of Khalan she is pretty close and can hopely pull it off. One thing that has hung me up and I know its a small thing is that The trailer show Ricahrd caring the Sword of Truth on his back. I hope it doesn’t stay that way since one of Ricahrd’s nervouse tics is to check that the sword if free is its scabard, which will be hard to casually if its on his back. I am still really excited about the show and plan to set up a series recording for it in my DVR just as soon as it shows up on the schedule.
Izacasoar says
Yeah, i dunno about this i got a little ticked when i saw who was playing richard and totally agree with the comments made about him looking to young, i also think he needs to bulk up more! Chase was a let down i never imagined him being black, so thats going to take some getting used to! I’m also frustrated that they changed the title, the first book is the wizards first rule thats what the first series should be called as well! I’m up too Chainfire at the moment and am loving the books i’m trying ot get them all finished before the series so the way it is portrayed on television won’t stunt my own imagination to how i in my head want it to be! anyways it’s only a preview i think the darken rahl should be pretty sweet he looks like he could pull off a tight arse O.C.D kinder character, but yeah this is only a preview and i hope the series does the books justice!
Warren says
I don’t know where people are getting the idea that Kahlan is blonde. I’ve seen it in several posts on different sites. It’s mentioned numerous times in the books that she is brunette and if you look at the cover of Stone of Tears and Blood of the Fold you will see a brunette Kahlan. The woman portraying her in the trailer is exactly how I imagined.
Josh says
Warren,
Khalan isn’t on the cover of Stone of Tears. Thats Pasha. But your right the books do say that she has brown hair.
Chanel says
Are you people crazy? Kahlan has BROWN hair. That is mentioned several times in the series, and PICTURED on the covers of Wizard’s First Rule and, I believe, Soul of the Fire. Where did you get the idea she was blonde? Also, keep in mind that prior to the first book, Richard was a woods guide. Nothing more. He will grow up and bulk up as the series progresses, just as Richard would have done in the books. And lastly, it was a let down that Chase is black? How racist does that sound? I am pretty sure he is mixed race anyway, not simply black.
People, if you are real fans of the book series you will have faith that TERRY GOODKIND, you know, the author (!!!) who helped choose the actors, made good decisions about HIS SERIES.
Tessa says
I agree they did not get the characters exactly right in the casting realm. Mr. Horner does looks a little young and the guy playing Zed does look a little menacing in the trailer. Craig Parker (Darken Rahl) is noticably absent from the trailer as well, disappointing I must say.
The things that worry me most are these two things:
1. ABC Family and Disney have the series which means quite few of a not-so-PG story elements will be left out of the series. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not not wanting to see a bloodfest. However, some of the danger and violent nature of their world may not be properly translated. For example, the Blood Gars (remember Gratch?)and the other fantastic creatures from the boundry maybe left out or poorly translated into something they can stuff and sell at the Disney store. And how are they going to convey the power of the Mord-Sith and their craft without the use of torture or any kind of “training”? This series would have been better left to HBO or Showtime (or even Sci-Fi???). Let’s hope the writers (and the powers that be at the network) are good enough to pull it off or at least make some fair substitutes without sacrificing the storyline.
2. Special effects. While it enables filmmakers to create a more fantastic and aestetically-pleasing scene than ever before, I have to agree with other commentors here: they are in serious danger of overdoing it and making it look cheesy.
Let’s hope this turns out to be well worth the wait.
Lady Tessa Elizabeth
Juli says
Just watched the trailer and I am kind of digging it. Richard does look at bit small, but I think that this guy can pull it off. Kahlan is just what I imagined…good going casting guys on that one! I will agree that I did not see Chase as a black man, but I guess that we have to be PC and all that jazz. Anywho….I can see why they renamed the series to Legend of the Seeker. If they were stuck with Wizard’s First Rule, then they could only stick with the first book and not progress to the next ones since they all have different names. Legend of the Seeker fits…and as long as Terry Goodkind is happy with the final results…then so am I!
kylito says
I agree with Chanel. What the hell are you talking about people? I think its kind of cool Chase has some ethnicity. I think it suits his sort of tough character well. Yes Richard looks a little young, but I’m certain he’ll grow into the role. But for some of the little inconsistencies, Goodkind did say the show wouldn’t be exactly like the books so take what you get be happy and stop complaining. And hell yeah I can’t wait to see what Cara looks like. If they don’t make her a hot, mean lokkin’ blonde I will be mad. Anyway, I can’t wait for it to come out because I’ve read the entire series twice and am craving some more Sword of Truth.
Master Rahl guide us!!!!!!!!!!! Peace Out!!!!!!!
Larry says
I’ve checked the fall ABC schedule and don’t see it listed here in The U.S. Hopefully it will be there soon
I’ve read the full series and am looking forward to this on TV. Just hope that it lives up to the books.. Usually I’m disapointed. I’m also a big Stephen King fan and only one of the movies made of his books have I really liked. That would be Shawshank Redemption..
Just so you guys know on page 10 of the paper back of Wizards First Rule it states. ” His eyes fell on the young womanas she came around the bend in front of him. His breath caught for an instant. Her BROWN hair was full, lush, and long, complementing the countours of her body”.
Further down on the page it also states “Her eybrows had a graceful arch of a raptors wings in flight. Her GREEN eyes came unafraid to his.
So her hair is brown, and her eyes are green. She is almost as tall as Richard also.
Josh says
Has anyone found a list of the stations that will be airing the show?
Caleb says
For anyone who thinks Kahlan is blonde, here’s an excerpt from page 10 of Wizards First Rule. When Richard firsts meets Kahlan.
“His eyes fell on the young woman as she came around the bend in front of him. His breath caught for an instant. Her brown hair was full, lush, and long, complementing the contours of her body.”
mark says
I am keeping my fingers crossed as like many of you I have been burned by my favorite books turning into horrible movies. However I have faith in the author who has some creative contol hopefully enough to make this well worth it. As for the casting I am more interested in someone that can act like Richard rather than look just like him. As for Zedd for those of you who find him too menacing remember he was the wind of death so yea he definately has a menacing side to him.
Quipvigilant says
There is one thing you all should keep in mind….if the series continues after the first season(and I hope it will), each season will pertain to the next book in the series. So if this is the case, then Mr.Horner “young” look may come in good…he just may have several more years to grow into the part and will eventually look older by the end of it all. Anyway…the trailer looks great, and like they say,”Never judge a book(or movie) by it’s cover. I never thought of Kevin Sorbo as Hercules…but he pulled it off. Just give it a chance.
Chanel says
Again I have to respond to people who are not doing their research before complaining. This show was bought by Disney, but it will not be on either Disney or ABC. Think of the kinds of things Disney has made.. Desperate Housewives anyone? The show is being shown in syndication. Channels like WGN, FOX ,and the CW are the ones that I have seen hosting the show so far.
Quipvigilant says
I believe I heard in an interview from the Comic-Con, that the CW was going to run it on Saturday nights…I could have misunderstood, but it’s a place to start looking.
Quipvigilant says
Here it is, the Comic-con interview. They went to Tribune which is affiliated with CW…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVTnkRLi_P8&feature=related
Shane Gordon says
Just saw the trailer and I’m excited.I think everyone agrees that that is not the Richard we all know. I trust that MR.GoodKind will not allow his opus to become a “Xena:Princess Warrior/Herculese” abomination
Sean says
You all need to keep in mind that if this show is a success, Craig Horner will be 11 years older when it ends. We’ve all developed a portrayal of Richard over the course of 11 books, so while the initial “look” of Richard is not what I envisioned either, I’m sure that he will develop and evolve into the role over the course of the first few seasons.
Alex says
Silly folk didn’t read the books closely enough, Kahlan is a brunette as a couple of you fine ladies and gents mentioned earlier. Actually I believe the say her hair is auburn but that’s still brown so no biggy. Her eyes are green. Richard’s eyes are grey, anyone see his eyes in the trailer? Uhm that’s Verna on the cover of Stone of Tears and I wouldn’t put my faith in the artwork of that particular installment, see the creature on the back? That’s supposed to be a Gar, yet Gar’s are fuzzy beasts with wrinkly faces, that thing looks like a demonic dinosaur!
I’ve read the entire series once and am working my way through a second time, I actually just finished Stone of Tears for the second time a couple of hours ago.
Kyle says
I agree, Richard looks a bit young, but he was still a fresh young lad when the series began. Give him time to mature, both physically and as a character.
And yes, Kahlan’s eyes are green. I don’t mind the producers changing her hair color as long as it still looks good though.
Pleasepleasepleasepleasepleasehotcarahotcarahotcara.
So I’m assuming one season will equal one book? That’s a hell of a task. Here’s hoping they can pull it off successfully.
Quipvigilant says
Yup, 1 season = 22 episodes = 1 book. The reason for this is so that they can get as much of the story as possible, of course some things will be different because of the translation from book to tv. Terry Goodkind even mentioned that some there will be scenes (add ons to the story) that were never in the book (to help “fill out the story line”).
With Mr Goodkind having a hand in the series creation, I’m sure it’ll be good. I don’t think he’ll screw it up…lol.
jenn says
Wow…for fans there are a lot of people here who have no idea what Kahlan looks like. Some people say blonde, others say light blone with hazel eyes…wtf???
Kahlan:
CHOCOLATE BROWN hair
GREEN eyes
good grief.
Also, the series/books will take years to make if this first one is a success so they needed a fairly unknown, young actor who will AGE into the role…remember Harry Potter and how quick he grew up while filming the movies? They didnt want an older man who would be OLD if the series continued through to the last book. Richard didnt start out all buff and super mean-looking. He has to grow into the role…get it? Good.
again….good grief people.
cp says
Well, i am looking forward to the show no matter what. i do admit some of the charecters were not i pictured in my head, but kahlan i think is an accurate depiction of her charecter. richard should be a little bigger. my issue is with chase’s charecter. i do not care what ethnic group the actor comes from. but chase in the book was a massive man. not just big, he was massive. the actor is not a big man.
and when i saw the trailer i thought that it was darken rahl looking menasing in the trailer not zedd.
Mim says
who every said kahlan is blond they are wrong might i add..sorry to say Dave but they mention her with dark long hair in the wizards first rule and as well in Soul of The Fire!! just thought i’d let u know but you were right about richard looking more like a boy band look then a dark handsome look.
Etria says
I think the thing about the trailer that makes me worry about this being like Zena/Hercules is the costumes. I haven’t read any of the books in over two years now but I always thought that the Kahlan’s dress was simple (and of a lighter more flowing material). I know that this may seem like such a small thing, but that really is a part of who Kahlan is. She has power and status that is conveyed by the simple and the graceful.
I hope that the actors will be able to bring to life the characters that we have all come to love. And I have to agree with what Josh said about the sword needing to be somewhere that richard can check to be sure it is clear.
So much to fear, but also so much to hope for.
Jimmy says
I don’t know why everyone is saying that Chase is black. He’s Maori. He looks more like a hawaiian. Definitely not black.
Quipvigilant says
All we can do is have faith in the creators of the television series who claim to “love” the books and in it’s author who does have a hand in the creating of this television series. We can’t be to critical, after all, has any book ever been the same once it was translated to movie or television format?….just cross your fingers and hope for the best, the worst that can happen is that you’ll not like it. If that happens, just don’t watch it.
McNasty says
I thought that was Pasha on the cover of Stone of Tears with Richard.
Anthony says
I am completely confident in the casting selections. Kahlan will be great, as long as she uses green contacts. Her eyes MUST be green. As for Richard, I never thought about the fact that he will have 11 years to grow into this role, and it makes sense to me now. This, however, makes me worry about Rachel. For a little girl, 11 years of growing cannot be passed off as 3-4. I’m sure they’ll figure out a way, though.
I agree that Zedd looks a bit too menacing. Yes, he is known as the wind of death, but that haunting visage only comes out a few times in the novels. He’s usually jovial, scared, or incredulous(near the end of the series). Still, I am confident that everything will be great. I look forward to all of the additions to the original storyline that they will need to create.
P.S. That IS Pasha on the cover of Stone of Tears, and the gar is an admitted mistake by the artist. That was the image he had of a gar when he drew it, and he realized later that he made a mistake.
Leo says
Can anyone other than me picture Anglina Jolie as Shota?
Jimi says
OK, nuff said regarding Richard, I think everyone agrees the one chosen is not what we all pictured, but then again give the kid a chance, and def nuff said regarding blonde Kahlan, she has brown hair period (Nicci and Cara were the major char’s that were blondes – both in later books). While I am totally stoked to see this series, I agree from one of the above comments, I am very nervous about it being on reg TV. One of the best parts of the entire series were the totally ADULT story lines and situations that were told brilliantly by Terry in all thier detail!!! Sometimes extreamly gory detail!! From the excrutiating Mord Sith training to Dennim Nass’s perversions to Darken Rahl’s way of ensuring truthfullness of those he questions (remember how George Cypher was found) and even as simple as the rubbing of frogs on Kahlan’s bare body in the spirit house. While all this can be told PG (and PC), that will take vital scenes and images away from what we all know and love about the books. I find this the most toubling of it all. I truly truly hope I am wrong, but watch Sopranoes on HBO and then again the same episode on A&E and it def losses something in the translation.
Jimi says
PS… I forgot to mention this B4… I am not so worried about a black Chase although I believe this to be just a PC ploy. However, if he looked like Bishop from the X-Men, that would be really cool), but like a prev post…he is supposed to be Massive, not just big, but HUGE, but he also must have a kind of quirkyness about him that kids find irresistable (aka. the whole adoption of Rachel). Don’t know who I would pick, but the guy in the trailer so far didn’t seem to project this at all. And also WTF is it with his title in this series. He was not a member of “Council’s Guard” (I never remember him being referred to as this (was he?))..he was always, and will ever be known as a BOUNDRY WARDEN…C’mon why the change? Which one sounds better anyway? LONG LIVE THE BOUNDRY WARDENS!!!!!
Rain says
I think that if all goes well Richard’s actor could potentially pull it off. (as well as it’ll be better to watch him grow into the role, and make the role that much better as time progresses) While i must admit that i never quite envisioned Chase as black, i do think that his ATTITUDE should pull things off quite well.
My main, and only concern, is WHY they are not having Kahlan wear a wig or something, or contacts – they are easy enough additions, and if they could have added contacts for even just a few of the charecters to make it just that speck more convincing, it would be truly that much better.
I’m wondering about the reason for diverging from the story line there,because it’s not just a tuny plot issue – it’s a MAJOR point – MY hair (unhealthy and splitting as it is) is actually longer than their Kahlan’s, and brown to boot. Even if they keep it the natural color and have her use extentions? Anything – the only other thing they could do if they don’t plan on cutting out the status effect of hair length in the Midlands, would be to have all other’s charecters hair even shorter by comparison. But it’s truly not long enough, (her hair is MAYBE what a queen’s might be from my mental image for the series.) This also seems to be a theme of most people’s opinion on her hair length, that even if it was JUST a little bit longer…
ah well anyways, those are my 2 cents. I’ll be interested in seeing how they pull things along, and hope against all hope that it comes out decently.
ian says
okay stumbled on this thing today and frankly i’m a little worried. the kid playing Richard doesn’t look right to me. Kahlan’s is a brunette. Cara and all the Mord-Sith are blonde. for that matter so is Nikki. although i doubt this thing will run long enough for us to get to meet Cara, Nikki, the Prelate,The Sisters of the Light or Dark, Nathan or anyone else not mentioned in the first book. i am an avid reader of most genres of books and an avid watcher of most genres of films and TV shows. i know that some allowances must be made in the filming of things that weren’t originally written with filming in mind. that said, some things shouldn’t change i.e. the casting should try and reflect the written descriptions as well as possible. the cynic in me is saying (with a cigarette hanging from his/my lip) that hollywood rarely gets it totally right. the mildly beat down optimist is saying give it a chance and you might be surprised. i rarely listen that that guy though.
Tim says
Glad to see so many are interested in the show. It looks great, and certainly from what I’ve seen and heard the producers and writers want to get the right tone for the show. I know I always pictured Cypher with longer hair. Maybe it will grow?
I know the trailer was produced pretty early on and they are only just now filming episode 3 so there will be more official stuff coming soon.
When I have more information I will pass it on. Hopefully the website will be updated soon!
scott says
just finished series 4 time not long ago. hope the show is 1/2 as good as books. Pretty sure there was no nikki in SoT series, unless referring to Nicci.
Lesley says
It should be Tom Welling as Richard!! TOM WELLING!!!!!!
Lesley says
Alice Kriege as Shota would be PERFECT!!!
ian says
nikki or nicci whatever. the point is i doubt we will get to meet these later characters
Sheila says
I read these blogs and there is arument on the color of Kalan’s hair. The first time she is seen by rRchard in the book it says that she is blonde because of the light reflecting off of her RED hair. Did any of you read the book. It says red hair. RED!
Alan Williamson says
I think we leave the show to the people who convinced the Seeker himself “Terry Goodkind” that this will be truly awesome. I am sure he has had much say in who was cast and how they will be portrayed.
I for one was hugely excited about the preview and loved everything about it. Richard will certainly grow into his role as the years roll on.
I can hardly wait another 70 days but as I read the books one at a time as they were written and had to wait years between writings (truly torture of the worst kind) i thin k I’ll survive.
I hope they put the humor into it as it was in the novels as well. Watching Nathan vanquish invisible foes with his sword will be my highlight!!
Although I can’t wait to see who they cast as Nicci, Denna, Cara & Shota Bring on the Babes!!!!!!!! LOL
God I love these books they were the best Fantasy books ever written sorry Tolkien.
Long live LOTS
michael says
i think neal mcdonough would have been perfect as darken rahl. i hope it doesn’t become hercules or zena cheap as it is one of my favorite book series. richard is supposed to be “bigger than most men” in wizards first rule, and chase is supposed to be even bigger. he was only small in stature when next to d’harans. i also agree they should just follow the books when it comes to the individual seasons instead of legend of the seeker.
Abbie says
I’m only REALLY disappointed on how they portray Zedd, he’s supposed to be a handsome lanky old man, not a creepy looking old man… The character they have in the preview is NOT way TG portrays him in the books. Oh well. Thats why books are so much better than movies, you can get into them and imagine what you think they’d look like, they become part of you.
Mike says
I don’t know… Isaw the trailor and it looked incredibly cheesy. Kahlan using her confssor powe looked bad on the trailor… Meh… I don’t know. That looks nothing like Richard… More like a boy band… Anyway, I will be insanely pissed if they cut out Denna. She has such a huge impact on Richard in many of the books, and if they cut her out because of what she is then I will know how the series will end. Badly. Praise Terry Goodkind and Shame on Christopher Paolini. That movie was a disaster.
amulaya says
Too many people are criticizing something as bad without even seeing the whole thing yet. I personally think that if Terry Goodkind has a hand in the choosing of the characters then they are perfect for the parts they are cast in. He wouldn’t let something bad happen to his name as a writer.
I say to everyone… Deal with it. I don’t think it would matter to you one way or the other, you have all read the books (well, most of you), you are already foaming out the mouth just to see it. You’ll watch it anyway.
Sweet says
I am just wondering how long it has been since everyone has read the book. Kahlan is not blonde she is the exact opposite of NIcci who is blonde. Richard looks boyish in the begining of the series I believe he is even refered to being too young looking to be the seeker. It is not until later the weight of his responsibility that makes him older looking. Especially after the capture by Denna the Mordsith. I understand that when we read the books we come up with our own version of the charcters but don’t you think the Mr. Goodkind would veto anyone who does not match the description he invisioned since it is his vision and his story. And again Zedd does not become a comic relief until after Richard accepts the full weight of his responsibilty and postition in the story. If you are a true die hard fan you would trust in the vision of Mr. Goodkind he would not have his hard work ruined by a bad cast. Please remember that Goodkind has been approached on Movie deals and the like for many years and did not sell the rights until he believed the show would be as close to his vision as possible. However, no series will ever encompass the true essence of the Sord of Truth the little important details are always left out. Can’t wait till Nov 1.
Tim says
This is a great thread, with many interesting points.
The producers are really behind this series, and the writers are excellent too. The filming in NZ means they can put more up on the screen, i.e. more SFX.
Bring on November 1 !
Ber says
WOW! I JUST now saw the trailer on tv, it just so happened to come on after a cubs game at 11pm… I noticed that some of the things happening in the trailer looked like things that happened in my favorite book, wizards first rule, so I was like… no way.. seriously?!?!?! so I went online and here I am!! I cant believe it!! I always wanted a movie or tv series of these books!! Ive read the Sword of Truth series so many times!! Im SOOO excited!! I cant WAIT!! I know that the tv series will be NOTHING compared to the books, but its still something Im looking forward to!!
ANYWAY I totally agree, the first thing I said was that the guy playing Richard seems really young.. and some of the effects look almost too overdone.. (fight scene with Kahlan in her white confessor dress). I trust Terry Goodkind, however, because he brought us this AMAZING world, its only natural he would make it the way he saw fit… I honestly cant WAIT to see the scenes with Denna.. thats my favorite part of the book really.. the Mordsiths… Im going to go read that one again.. if I find time >.<
~SUPER EXCITED!
Nathan says
Does anyone know if the series will be carried in Canada, and if so, by whom?
blu says
I agree with comments above! Richard should be played by like a Christian Bale…
cause he can look like a woods guide or a king
I was thinking the woman they have for Kahlan looks more like a Verna—cause she is attractive but not strikingly beautiful—I think Kahlan should be played by like a Charlize Theron with long wavy brown hair and green eyes! Cant wait to see her white dress!
and I think all good wizards should look like Ian McKellen or Gandalf
Ooohh and Shota could be Angelina Jolie!
I cant wait to see the mord-siths as well!
cory says
i personally have yet to see the trailer, but from what im hearing about Zed being shown as a dark character should not put you off on his character representation in the TV series as a whole. After all, yes through the series he, for the most part, was a comic relief, but as fans of the series are aware of through the series and in the prequel he earned himself the name “The Wind of Death” so he obviously has a rather menacing dark side when driven to it, which he shows occasionally through the course of the series.
Hoping for great things from this one!!!
jessica says
I am sooo excited that they made “the sword of truth” into a television series.. i am currently reading “chainfire”. i love the books, so i cant wait to watch these characters come to life.. and yeah, maybe Craig Horner is a little smaller than i imagined Richard to be, but if u read back to the first book, u will realize that he didnt always seem as big, and with such a strong demeaner.. but i think he will turn out to fit the role well.. cant wait!!!!! And also, Kahlan does have brown hair and green eyes.. for everyone who keeps debating it, and saying she should be blonde..
J.D. Honore says
Well… to start off. I am an AVID fan of the series. I have read the entire series 17 times, and have read WFR 26 times (the horrid consequences of having a mostly photographic memory, added to an obsessant need to escape our sick-ciety. I can quote nearly the entire first 5 books. I am a writer, and reading is my LIFE.
Though I agree, with the OVER stated “young Richard” clause, and the horrible argument of Kahlan’s AUBURN hair being actually blond (of ALL colors) Yes her eyes are GREEN, his are GRAY. It is PASHA MAES on Stone of Tears. Parkinson admitted making the GAR mistake after painting it… all of this has been beaten to death here (Can we PLEASE move on)???
I can’t say anyone is wrong for bringing these things to light, for when I saw first the trailer, all of these points struck me too. Other issues presented themselves that NOONE here has even mentioned… Extremely important ones such as… did NONE of you notice that the engraving on the Sword of Truth is on the blade? ” His knuckles were white…The finely woven letters of the word ‘Truth” bit into the palm of his hand”. Yes, this got me, but still I say…. FORGET THE LITTLE DETAILS AND NUANCES THAT WOULD MAKE THIS AN EXACT REPLICA OF WHAT WE ALL HAVE IN OUR MINDS OF THE BOOKS.
What made you all fall in love with the books in the first place?- It was the HEART and the MINDS and the INTEGRITY of the characters. It was the DYNAMIC representations of each that made you sit up at night turning the pages saying, “just one more page and I’ll go to bed”. Look to this series as a way to tell the story a different way!!! To be honest, I was just as miffed as you all, but then I started to think… Hey, I know the story. Watching what I already know on screen (which can NEVER compare to the imagination anyway) is pointless… Mr. Goodkind, tell me the story in a DIFFERENT way! That’s what we should all make this series. Just ENJOY it for being in the world we love. Rediscover a new book in this show.
J.D. Honore says
One last thing….
THE CAST HAS ALREADY BEEN CHOSEN!!!
GET OVER IT!!!
We all have our own ideas who would play a better whom… that’s our wonderful imaginations. Let’s stop bringing that up too… mmm-kay…
I truly hope to feel the connection of ALL of you, and your family, and friends, and neighbors you’ve told to watch sitting before the tube come November 1st!
You all RULE!
Craig says
J.D.
Thank you very much for setting things straight. I also have read the entire series several times over, and I could not be any more excited over the casting. We have to remember that in the trailers we are seeing Richard Cypher, a young woods guide that will surely grow into the all powerful Master Rahl. Who knows, his eyes may change colors when he realizes that he is actually a war wizard! I am quite sure that the talented folks that are bringing this printed media to visual media will come up with some surprises to even us most hardened Rahlaphiles (is that a word?). I will reserve my judgement. We also have to remember that there are sooo many details in printed media that would be impossible to cover in twenty two hours of film. Remember the “bird that is not a bird” in the Mud Peoples village, and the characters thoughts that were printed about that? You just can’t put all of that into film. There will be alot in this mini series that will be left to the imagination of the viewers, and many details in the books that just cannot feasibly brought to the screen. That being said, I am quite sure that Terry Brooks will ensure that the integrity of his works are not lost in the process.
Master Rahl Guide Us!
Quipvigilant says
JD, I’m sure it was just a little mistake, but it’s Terry Goodkind, not Terry Brooks, lol. Although..Terry Brooks is in talks to have the Elfstones of Shanara made into a movie.
Quipvigilant says
OOPS sorry, It was Craig and not JD that made the little faux pas about the author’s name.
Craig says
OMG, Little faux pas???? Sorry guys, that’s a major slip up. Brooks can also spin a good yarn though! But that’s a different story. I still stand by my statements though!
Chris says
OMG…Kahlan is NOT blond, read the books people!! She has Dark brown hair not brown, That would be Cara….Geeeeez
Evelyn says
like every1 else is sayin richard is a bit small, kahlan does work except the hair, its supposed to b super long since she is a confessor and all. and her confessors touch was not as strong as i imagined. i will stay optimistic since the ppl who are doin this series did hercules and xena and i was a MAJOR xena fan. i still have my fingers crossed for this and will b sittin on my couch nov 8th.
Nathan says
yeah..i agree with most of everyone’s comments about Richard not looking all yoked up like he’s supposed and that Zedd looks like one of the evil wizards at the palace of the prophets…but ill got to say is. if you haven’t read all of the books. dont even try to talk. leave it for those who have had to endure the wait the last three years for the final trilogy to be completed. I love this story and kudos to whoever tries to put on screen. but we all know that this series means so much to each of us because its in our minds. so keep what you want in there. who knows? they might do it justice with Ja La games later on or make the Keep look like some weaksauce. but i guess we will see.
Brandi says
I was put off a bit, too, about Kahlan’s hair. I thought it was too short, but then I thought back to the first book and she had just recently became Mother Confessor at that point. She was just a confessor until all the others died and she then became the Mother Confessor which would allow for her super long hair so at this point it was just growing. I do believe it says somewhere in the series that her hair is brunette. Not near black but a medium brown.
But I totally agree that Richard is too boyish looking.
Tim says
In case anyone missed it:
http://www.legendoftheseeker.com/
Anne says
Ok people, the books are the books and the show is the show. Kahlan has BROWN hair, not blonde and RIchard GREW UP throughout the series of books, so of course he is going to be young at first! What I want to know (and cannot find anywhere after searching) is WHAT STATION/NETWORK IS GOING TO SHOW THIS EPIC SERIES????????? I cannot find the information anywhere….does any one know?????? PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!! I don’t want to miss ANY of it!
Quipvigilant says
Tribune is the company they went to for broadcasting. Just go to http://www.tribune.com and go to the broadcast drop down. That’ll show you what stations they own and what area’s they are in, but not when the show will start… The legend of the seeker site says Nov.1st. You’ll have to keep an eye open on your local listing to see for sure what station and time for your area.
JAMES says
I’m really pumped about this show. I’ve read through the books several times and totally enjoy the series. I do believe the show is to be on the sci-fi channel. and its a show not the books. so people shouldn’t get bent out of shape. no movie is the same as the book.
the male confessor says
look guys…we all have our own imagination, and no matter how hard they try, nobody is going to have a cast that resembles what you have built up in your heads over the the course of the books. thats the beauty of books, and they all have different looking characters and landscapes in our own minds. enjoy the series for what it is!! i was so gutted when the series of books ended, that at least now i have to look forward to this series and any follow on series they may make…i know im gonna enjoy watching them, but the books will stay with me long after the tv show ends
KC says
Ya, Kahlan is definitely brunette. Richard is a little too young and too small. And, at the risk of sounding racist(and I’m not) Chase is not black. Other than that, I am really excited for this show. The Sword of Truth is my favorite book series and First Rule was my fav book. They better hit home with the first 22 episodes or there will be no 2nd season dues to pissed off fans
J.D. Honore says
Petty arguments really need to cease… It’s sad. If they don’t, and we the fans can’t get over the changes… there will be no continuing show.
Honestly people…
RE-READ MY POST FROM BEFORE…. SLOWLY…
LET IT SINK IN!!!
DL says
Wow, I didn’t realize so many people could be so picky about the details……Who cares if the actors portraying the characters look exactly like they do in the book. Never seen a movie or show where they did. It’s the essence that counts. (And to be honest, people have so many different views of the details I’m beginning to wonder if they were printed differently than in the releases I have.)
I’ve read the books more times than I can count… (well, I can count that high, I just didn’t bother keeping track. ) I have a few series I read over and over and over to the point they would fall apart if I didn’t care for them the way Warren cares for books of prophecy, and this series is one of them. I won’t even mind if there is less gore in the series than in the books. When you’ve read them as many times as I have, you start to skip over the 2 1/2 pages of detail of how the blood splattered. It makes for a great first, second and third time read, but almost 10 years later it can be a bit much. (10 years to mature, and reading the complete series [at least what is published at the time] 2-3 times a year will do that to you.)
I hope the series is successful, and airs in Canada at least before it is canceled in the States. I would LOVE to see Faith of the Fallen in the series, as aside from Wizards First Rule this is the best book in the series. (In my humble opinion)
I hope the fans can take the series for what it is, a TV series. Look at it as another way of telling a favorite story, and open yourselves to the view of another’s imagination. You will always have your books to return to if it becomes too much.
P.S. “Bigger than most men” is relative. If you come from Dutch blood, you could be referring to a very big person indeed, but if you come from a Pigmy Tribe in Africa…… I think you see my point.
Jessica M. says
In my mind, I always visualized Chase being a black guy. Right on! VERY excited about the series, I just hope they stick to the book!
Jessica M. says
I agree with Leo! Angelina Jolie would be the perfect Shota!
Sword of Truth Lovers! says
We believe Angelina Jolie would be a perfect Kahlan although maybe a little old. (Whoops! might get some hate mail on that coment). We also thought a younger version of Russel Crowe would make an ideal Richard! Charlize Theron would be fantastic Nicci and there are other aclaimed actresses and actors who would fit the bill on rest of cast. We really thought this would be a fantastic movie along the lines of LOTR for many, many years. We also waited with baited breath for each book to come out and have to admit we were a little dissapointed with the ending of the series. But no matter, heres hoping the series will follow through to the conclusion and they don’t drop the ball.
Quipvigilant says
Who would fit the bill for Jagang the Just? I always imagined a huge brute of a guy. The one that came to mind for me…. was Kane from the WWE. Physically, I think he fits the bill. (this an attempt to get away from the repeated arguements from above, lol)
Quipvigilant says
New trailers on the site http://www.legendoftheseeker.com featuring the voices of either Zed, Kahlan, or Richard. Check it out.
Shane Gordon says
As for Jajang I can see David Draiman from Disturbed
WintermuteNight says
For jagang (may the series reach that far), I suggest Nathan Jones, if they can get him some acting lessons as Jagang was both intellectual and physically imposing. So far, Jones has done bit parts in movies where he needed to be big and buff (Boagrius in Troy, T.K. in The Proctector, Hercules O’Brien in Jet Li’s Fearless), but I he didn’t really act, he just growled a lot.
Big fan says
khaln isnt blonde
John Welch says
I like the look of Kalhan she is beautiful,if a little less full chested than I envisioned.Richard looks younger and shorter than I would have thought ,I mean the fellow that is playing Zedd is way taller than Richard! Did the casting director read Zedds disciptions in the book at all. He has a good strong voice. though .As for Chase I pictured as a forty something bad ass bald white guy, .I don’t what race his , but I do want him to have some muscle defintion.I should not be more cut up the boundry warden. As for Shota,if they cast Anglina Joline I would not watch those episodes ,she is so over. If I see any of the cheese costume I saw ON Hercules I will not be watching> I mean the company that did the Lord of the Rings costumes is IN New Zealand right ,Weta it had better be them .
Quipvigilant says
Nathan Jones…yeah, I forgot about him. He is indeed physically imposing.
Legender says
I think Chase is some good casting!
Some new stuff just came out:
Times and stations in your area are now up at the show site:
http://www.legendoftheseeker.com/
Another way to keep up to speed is a new Facebook page:
http://www.new.facebook.com/pages/Legend-of-the-Seeker/25088724403
Looks like two new photos. Nice one of Kahlan!
Chelsea says
It’s so cool to see how many people are excited for this series!! I couldn’t believe it when my friend told me they were making a series for TV… I am right now in the midst of rereading the series for probably the billionth time, so it’s a good coincidence that the TV adaptation is coming along.
I am going to try not to be picky about details, or else the show will suck because I’ve picked it apart too much or let my expectations get too high. Books…Show…Separate.
The only thing that really bothers me is that there are going to be characters that were never once in the books. Oh, and yeah, Zedd is incredibly scary, hahaha. They should probably have cast someone less frightening. At the same time, though, I saw a movie still of him, and his small smile and the look in his eyes gave me a strong sense of Zedd, so I’m hoping the actor can make up for his frighteningly non-Zedd appearance with some awesome acting.
I am SO excited for this to hit the air!!! I hope it does well, and I’m pretty confident that Terry Goodkind wouldn’t let them do too much to butcher his writing.
Vicci says
Uhm..no. Kahlan’s hair is NOT brown. If you payed attention from the 1st to the 5th book it was long and BLONDE. Then, for some reason Gookind turned into “warm brown” in the 5th book. I mean really, what happened ? In the TV series, Kahlan not only has brown hair. but her eyes are not was described in the book. She looks 10 years older than Richard. Ridhrd look lie a teenage boy, while she’s a woman. I can’t believe this. I hope that their acting will make up for their terrible match to the book.
Jeff Donchez says
honestly.. I don’t care that she’s blonde/brown, whatever.. but her hair is WAY too short.. when I think of kaylan, I think of waist length, or longer hair (or crystal gale length).
I agree that richard looks young, but I also understand that he has to age into it.
Tim says
Just to clarify:
It was NOT blonde. I just read the first book.
The hair is long, but only longer than everyone else’s. It is NOT down to her waist.
There is a new promo coming soon on Facebook, btw:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Legend-of-the-Seeker/25088724403
Jesse Kidd says
First off Richard was weak and scared of his responsibility of being named seeker. You picture Richard in your minds as if he was always able to slay 30 people with ease. Craig Horner is only 25 and has many years to perfect Richard’s role. If the show makes it that long. Pasha is on the cover of Stone of Tears not Verna. Verna is pushing 40 not 20. Chase is black….Big deal it never describes his skin tone in the books. Did you think all the characters were white. I hope you know the Mud People are probably going to be dark skinned people. I’m sorry everyone it never says how lon Kahlan’s hair is, only that its suppose to be longer than everyone else. Oh and her hair is not RED its brown. Darken Rahl’s hair does not need to be blonde just long, but Jangang’s has to be bald. It never really describes Richard’s Raptor gaze until much later after everyone know about his descent. Darken Rahl definetly had a raptor gaze in the last trailer. Zedd is First wizard do you guys not remeber how he reacted when Kahlan told him about sending him away to the Sisters of Light. SCARY. HEe is basically the comic relief . Most really cool characters do have a comedian like side and a cold merciless in them. Its like you guys are comparing Zedd to Sephiroth here. Look at Smalville, 24, LOST, or Heroes. All of theses TV show started off with hardly any blood but now you see things like Lex shoving Lana’s hand through a spike or TNT blowing a person into hundreds of pieces. It won’t be HBO but it will do. Obviously there will be no nudity but all you have to see is a naked back to get the picture. This is Sam Raimi people can you say Spider Man. Don’t give up so soon people.
Tim says
Good points JK. Thanks for all the great input here.
There is now a countdown widget for anyone who wants to add it to their Facebook page, or their own website. You can just copy the code from the application.
The new trailer is seriously great! See it on the LOTS website or Facebook now!
If anyone wants some materials for their own use, they can grab it here:
http://groups.google.com/group/LegendSeekers/
Enjoy. And remember November 1 !!
Kyle says
The only problem i can see with the show is that Zedd, in my mind anyway, looks frail and comical but in actuality is very powerful and menacing. Zedd’s menacing side only comes out when he wants it too and there is a definite change in his appearance when this side comes out. In this regard i think they could have done a better casting job… But that’s just me.
Kristi says
I think we’ve built these characters up in our heads so much that it would be impossible for any actor to compete.
I, for one, am going to trust Terry Goodkind and the executive producers and enjoy the show with an open mind. It’s not going to be like the books. It’s impossible to get it exactly right for every fan, but I think it will be fun to watch how they bring this story to life.
Jesse Kidd says
I agree with Kristi, no actor could feel these roles right off the bat. Give it time people. The making of the legend of the seeker comes on this weekend.
Jay Singer says
I keep reading about Chase’s character being cast by a black guy, hardly, the guy they cast is New Zealander, probably Mรยori (native). I think he will make a great Chase who hates ugly little girls!
Kirsty Holt says
I’m from the UK and am sooo envious, i want to see it on the ist nov and not have to wait ages to come over here, gutted…..
Kelly Summers says
I have read alot of these comments and feel that i need to put my comments in. I have read the seres of books twice and am on my third just started the pillars of creation. When i saw the trailer i had to rewind to make sure i saw it right. I about lept out of my chair with excitement. i think that the caracters were chossen with great care and if Terry Goodkind is happy with the choices then so should we. i do hope that it does not become a xena/hurcules type of program that would be just dissapointing. My wife and I have been saying for about 3 years that they should make this into a movie, guess this will do. at least with a series they can put more of the book into it. i think that some of the people leaving comments should go back and read the books again to refresh themselves on the characters and how they are described i do not believe that chase was ever described as black or white, so who’s to say he wasn’t keep in mind that no matter how you see the characters the books will always be the best. For those interested if you like Terry Goodkind’s books check out Terry Brooks i have read his books for years then found Goodkind.
Linda Martindale says
My son begged to read “Sword of Truth”, I could not lay it down. I had read all of the series to current. Altho, the pictures of the cast do not at all meet with my mental personal charters; I know that if the story line goes well, I will surely fall in love with these actors. I love to read more than most people and I have never found a writer that could make me feel as if I were a part of the story like Terry
Goodkind. I pray this series goes well so that many more Americans can escape the reality of gas prices, mortgages, etc.
Linda Martindale
Nashville, Arkansas
Scott says
I picture these characters in this way.
Richard is 27-30 years old, serious, with a bit of a commanding presence. People listen to what he says because he is a rational thinker, he is analytical and is always trying to figure out the answers. He is at least 20-30 lbs heavier than Craig Homer. Picture Christian Bale’s bulk but defined. When Richard chops wood with the sword, Kahlan admires his frame. This man is near perfect, and he is able to defend himself against the quad, so he has enough weight on him to utilize in his defense. (The men used in the quad were huge in the book, the ones they showed in the trailers are normal) Homer is too “boyish” like many have said, his frame is lacking in meat. Hopefully he will do Richard justice.
They changed the story. Richard KNEW the book of counted shadows, he didn’t have to find it. This is one of the key elements of his acknowledgement of his gift, because he remembered and could learn a book of magic.
Kahlan is beautiful, commanding, intelligient, and intense, and has little to smile about. Her whole life has been devoted to duty, and is filled with horror and pain. She only shares a private little smile with Richard at the beginning. She is definitely brunette, for those who think she is blonde, I’d advise going back to book 1 and rereading her description. I think they got her pretty darn close in choosing Regan. We’ll see how she portrays her.
Zedd is a skinny little man, who looks very non-threatening. He dresses in plain robes and does not look like anything special, especially not a wizard. Spence in the trailer looks solemn, and very wizard like. In the book, as was mentioned, Zedd is a comic relief, one Richard is relaxed around, not an aire of mysterious, magical awe. Richard knows that there is more to Zedd’s background (secrets) but they are like Father and son, mentor and student. There is a mutual feeling of respect for each other.
Chase is bigger than Richard, Not ripped muscular wise, but a block. Big frame, and one you wouldn’t want to mess with. Jay Laga’ aia’s skin color isn’t an issue, but his size could be much more. Chase takes on two to three of the quad all by himself near the end of the first book. His character is relentless in energy.
I don’t know if the dark haired man with the wavy knife in the previews is supposed to be Darken Rahl, but I hope not. Darken Rahl is a perfect specimen of a man, bulky yet lean, strength and commanding presence, one you know you don’t mess with. Remember that Kahlan connects the similarity between him and Richard. They are like mirror images of each other but different in the way of perfect beauty and ruggedness, like good and evil.
It would have been better if Peter Jackson had gotten a hold of this one and ran with it (four hour movie). You can’t do this series justice if you leave out all the violence. The violence is what shapes the characters, and gives them their incentive or drive to defeat the heartache and misery that evil leaves in its wake.
Weรขโฌโขll see.
Scott
Matt says
I think that everyone is getting way too worked up about what the characters look like. So long as they capture the essence of the character, aka the personality and some semblance of the appearance, then everything else will be forgiven. But if you really want to be picky about everything Iรขโฌโขll make a list of a few of the things Iรขโฌโขve noticed from the trailers and the short portion of the first episode Iรขโฌโขm sure youรขโฌโขve all watched by now: The character Darken Rahl is supposed to have blonde hair and blue eyes and be older than is portrayed in the trailers, Zedd is supposed to be shorter than Richard and know him beforehand, Kahlan needs green eyes, longer hair, Richard needs to be bigger as he is described so in the beginning, Rahl is supposed to have marked Richard already at the beginning of the book, Richards father isnรขโฌโขt supposed to die is a fire, Richard doesnรขโฌโขt have a horse, he doesnรขโฌโขt build a bridge, he is supposed to be looking for snake vine, Richard and Kahlan are supposed to meet before the Quad is encountered, they donรขโฌโขt follow her through the same way through the boundary, Richard is supposed to kill one without help, they are supposed to be trapped between two on each side on the side of a cliff, Kahlan doesnรขโฌโขt faint after using her power, I mean you can go on and on about what is different and that’s not even without seeing a full episode. The show is not going to be like the books no matter how hard they try. Goodkind is one the best authors that I have ever read, so capturing his way of storytelling that is so engaging is unlikely. This, not the appearance of the characters or slight deviation of story line, is what will most likely cause the feeling of inadequacy of the show for the lovers of the books. Also be prepared for the show to deviate from the story line in a somewhat more drastic way. Although the WFR has a very good story line, there are going to need to be changes to make it suitable for broadcast, such as the boundary being more defined, more sword fighting, a larger cast, side adventures, and especially a down play in the gore, all of which could potentially add to the world and allow for character development not found in the books. As for any fears of cheesiness, I would say to wait for a couple of episodes to air and not worry about it too much, fighting will get better as the series progresses and the outfits arenรขโฌโขt that bad. The last fantasy book I saw adapted to film was Eragon and this canรขโฌโขt possibly be as bad as that. All in all Iรขโฌโขm excited a think that this should be viewed with fond memories of the book series but realistic expectations of what can be done and what canรขโฌโขt. And on a side note I really hope that the series has a good composer doing the music because if not we might as not hope for a second season. Music makes or breaks series and movies, but is something not really talked about.
patrick says
I’ve read the SOT series at least 23 times i love it so much.
the actor who plays Richard Cypher/Rahl is young yes scrawny yes however remember that the 11 books take place over 4-6 years i think.
Kahlan does have long light dark brown hair and green eyes.
Cara’s hair is blonde, however not all mordsith’s hair are, it’s the braid that is important.
the actor that plays Zed is a dissapointment however with makeup he could look friendly.
the actor who plays Darken rahl needs to dye his hair blonde and remember he doesn’t do too much over the 11 books infact he’s only in 1 ,2 and 4 2 and 4 breifly in 2 and 4
i do see a problem with the actresses that play Rachel and Princess Voilet even if the plot takes place over 4-6 years from what i can figure is that the series will be spead out over 11 years and rachel and violet are 7 7+4-6= 11-13 not 18
WARNING THOSE WHO HAVN’T SEEN THE FIRST 10 MINUTES DO NOT READ
i just saw the first 10 minutes of the series and i am a little upset THINGS ARE WAY DIFFRENT in the series than in the book.
1: the boundry is a mountain range with green light not a wall of green light
2: Kahlan did not have the book of shadows
3: Kahlan’s sister was not with her just before she reached the boundry
4: Richard was looking for a plant not building a bridge
there may be more that i didn’t see, but what i saw so far is not the series i had imagined. i think i’ll watch the first 3 episodes, hopefully they correct their biggest mistakes
tk says
Some people are saying that they would have liked a movie better. I, for one, love the fact that it is a tv show. Sure, some of the production and more mature themes will be toned down, but I am THRILLED that each book will give me 22 hours of video pleasure instead of 2-3. This will allow a much better story and prolonged enjoyment.
To those who are nitpicking and saying that the show isn’t going to be exactly the same as the books, the tv show isn’t even for you, you are never going to like anything that isn’t the books so don’t waste your or anyone else’s time. I finished the series a year ago and time has left the details in my mind moldable. I noticed about 2 dozen things that are wrong, but I’m more okay with that because I havent re-read the books every 2 weeks for the past 10 years. I am going to LOVE THIS SHOW.
Cathy says
People should probably read the books before commenting on physical flaws in the casting of the characters. Yes, Kahlan is definitely a brunette. Nowhere in ANY of Goodkind’s books is she described as a blonde. It’s mentioned many many times in every book that she has soft brown hair. Perhaps these people are thinking of Nicci or Cara, who are both blonde. I can’t wait for this series to air… I started reading these books in my early teens and just finished the series a few months ago. To see the things I could only imagine actually come to life on a screen is going to be worth any discrepencies that may occur. But please people….stop saying Kahlan is blonde!!
Cathy says
By the way, for any Canadians who are wanting to know the time and channel for the first episode, I just found a great link. http://www.dose.ca
click on tv
click on tv listings
enter your postal code
Search Nov 1st
On Shaw cable it’s on at 6:00 MST on chanel 37.
J.D. Honore says
Hello all… To any of you that have read my previous posts, (and for those that haven’t I suggest you do), I have just seen the 30 minute Lucy Lawless preview of the series. I have seen the 10 minute preview about a dozen times. Still I stand by my previous statements… but there are a few issues that I think must be touched upon.
Though it would seem like tiny and insignificant issues I am about to raise, it makes a huge impact on the dynamics of the characters and story line of not only the first book, but of the subsequent stories that build off of the points…
The first issue is that the Book of Counted Shadows, being carried by Kahlan. This is a major problem because one of the largest components of the first book is that Richard has the book memorized and destroyed long ago. Now, one could easily argue the minor detail of this… but think on this… How much information is completely built off this fact on ALL the books… from Richard’s knowledge of the minor details as he stands before Darken Rahl in the garden of life all 3 times (twice in book 1, and once in book 2)… to the finding out it is a false copy in the Chainfire Trilogy. And should you think that it is still a moldable issue… It plays into the closeness Richard had with George Cyper, the distance between Richard and Michael Cypher, and MANY other issues.
Secondly, though it would seem a trivial issue about EVERYONE else’s physical features… with Darken Rahl, the “Cruel perfection…” and “Long Blonde hair…” actually play a psychological role in the books to give a menace that changing these things cannot. Think about this… the common “cruel, dark, and sinister ugly guy” is ALWAYS viewed as the bad guy. With the unbelievably handsome Darken Rahl, it shakes up the notion and the stereotype of the dark sinister villain. Think of Zedd’s speaches in the fist chapters of WFR… How perception is everything, and how the “bad guy” view what he is doing as right. The handsomeness and blonde hair are what gave Rahl the more “human” qualities. (And NO I’m not saying that a brunette can’t be human. But in our sic-siety, the ugly guy is the bad guy, and the blonde guy is the beautiful good guy… this is simply Pshcy 101 stuff)
And lastly, though I am hoping the actual series fixes the misconception given in the trailer and previews… where Richard screams out (on the preview) “I don’t even know either of you!”… I am hoping he is being figurative, because if they changed the storyline so much as to not having Richard growing up with Zedd, imagine all the implications THAT would have on completely destroying the story for EVERYONE…
If there are any other AVID AND MATURE Sword of Truth fans that wish to chat on the subject of this series, or the book… feel free to email me at aiden_morax@yahoo.com.
Master Rahl Guide us…
Quipvigilant says
Of course, Terry Goodkind himself stated that the tv series was “based on” the novels, and that the message of the novels….it’s your life, so stand up and live it!….would be kept through out the tv series. He also stated that there would be changes and additions to the storyline. And I know that this was mentioned in the comments up above, so I’m not sure why so many of you are surprised by the differences from the book. Eh….who cares if it’s changed, I’m sure it’ll be a great show none the less. I cant wait!
Ruke says
J.D. I absolutely have to agree with you. I read thru this entire post, and everyone is arguing about the characters looks. So far, every character I’ve seen has fit wonderfully into what I had pictured. What I am more concerned about is a couple of the issues that you and a couple of other people have brought up. Firstly, as you said, Richard had the Book of Counted Shadows memorized, and this played major roles in the following books. Unless he memorizes the book over the course of the first season, I don’t see how this will work in any of the following seasons. Secondly, again as you said, Richard ABSOLUTELY must know Zedd from the beginning of the series. Zedd is the comic relief, but throughout the books no one, not even Kahlan knows Ricard as well as Zedd, this leads to explanations of Richards actions that at the time may seem insane to others, Zedd is the only one who clarify what is most likely going thru Richards head. So, that being said, if Zedd isn’t portrayed as Richards grandfather, or at least a very, very close friend, I can not see myself watching this series very long. I know it ended as a quad, but why where there 6 people initially hunting Kahlan and her sister? Also, although it’s less important, Richard looking for the snake vine does play a major role. Don’t forget that if it hadn’t been for the snake vine, Zedd would have never agreed to help Kahlan, since he believed he was safe behind the barrier, and only realized because of the vine that the barrier was failing. Also, let’s not forget Denna. If not for Denna, Richard may very well never have taken over the responsibility of being the seeker. In this way, Denna is one of the most important characters in the series. Don’t forget, Richard realizes this too, as he wears her agiel up until the point he gives it away.
One of my thoughts:
I believe that in the beginning Kahlan is coming from D’Hara, into Midland, after stealing the book. I think the way its presented, she travels across Midland and into Westland. I may be wrong, but thats just the impression that I got. I would like to see her fairy friend, whos name escapes me at the moment, but I don’t think that shes going to be there.
Well, here’s hoping to a awesome Scarlet (and all 4 or 5 dragon types, I hope to see a gray dragon running around being treated like a dog, don’t forget that Kahlan tell Richard about the different dragons, and this how this sort of thing happens at one point.), Gratch (and all gar for that matter, keep in mind there are 2 types), and the mriswith.
Master Ruke guide us. Master Ruke teach us. Master Ruke protect us. In your light we thrive. In your mercy we are sheltered. In your wisdom we are humbled. We live only to serve. Our lives are yours.
Heist says
All I can say that Richard is definitely not what I had imagined. The main character should at least look SOMETHING as described in the book. The Richard in the book is a pretty big guy. Kahlan looks taller than him in the preview! A babyfaced kid is not what I pictured a rugged woods guide to look like. As far as the plot, I have no idea how they are going to incorporate all of the adult material. As has been said, if Denna is not included then this is not the SOTS. I wish TG had not sold out for a TV show. He should have done a movie series (i.e. Harry Potter). I’m pretty sure there’s enough interest in medieval themed movies as long as they are done well (not like eragon). I guess he figures a tv show has more margin for error with cheesiness. This series is being done by the XENA guy! I am keeping my expectations low so that I won’t be disappointed. Then maybe I will be pleasantly surprised.
derek says
the name of the fairy is Shar which is important because later in the series its the name of the fairy that allows him passage into the realm of the fairies
Zanadu says
The best thing about the books is the two main characters’ character, not thier hair or size. In the trailer where Richard says to Khalan ‘Its MY destiny’, I believe the actor can do it. Khalans character can fight well enough for now. I pray that I get to see Jagang with his rings and wool vest, all of it.
I Trust Terry Goodkind in this endeavor and I just hope he KEEPS WRITING.
Tim says
After reading comments, and seeing the first 30 minutes, I get the concerns. However, I do see where the producers may be going with things. The Book of Counted Shadows, if it is indeed memorized as in the book, is hardly the stuff of drama. Sometimes an object, and the pursuit thereof, is the drama. If it’s in his head, that works in Wizard’s First Rule just fine, but it doesn’t play well on screen. By having Kahlan and Dennee trying to deliver it, there is more at stake.
As for Darken Rahl, I always thought it weird (or ironic?) that Goodkind made his character blond. With a name like Darken, and an evil intent, the blond thing doesn’t play out as well. Especially as we saw the Malfoy characters in Harry Potter be evil blonds, I bet it was perceived as too near the knuckle to go down that road again.
Needless to say, I am looking forward to this. I hope everyone watches!
J.D. Honore says
I just saw this “highly anticipated two hour premier” of probably the most amazing story ever told .
I hereby recant all the positive and negative things I have said… You see, I set up my DVR the DAY the show became available on the list, two weeks in advance… I intentionally told myself to expect nothing besides the story to be told in a different way… I gave the TV drama factor into the equation as well… In all honesty, I’ve been waiting for this show since 1994 (that’s 14 years for those that don’t want to do the math)… and I have NEVER BEEN MORE DISAPPOINTED by anything hitting the screen IN MY ENTIRE LIFE. Though I expected the story to be somewhat different, this story is entirely crap. They used every single fantasy CLICHE possible and crammed it into one show. What made the books so wonderful and successful, was that there wasn’t any cliche overdone fantasy.
It is as though Raime sat in a room of writers, and while Mr. Goodkind sat mute, they said “Hey, let’s take a wonderful story and see how BAD we can screw up every single little thing!!!”
As for the whole, “We kept the ESSENCE of the characters… their personality… and what made everyone fall in love with the characters….” …..BULLSH*T!!! They have turned Richard into an impetuous, impulsive and immature CHILD that rushes stupidly into every situation. Richard was so lovable because he THOUGHT and figured things out!!! Richard acted like a man, not a 15 year old horney boy that couldn’t keep his eyes off Kahlan’s breasts and “posterior” (and no this has NOTHING to do with the look of the actor). He killed LESS THAN 5…. COUNT THEM less than 5 people throughout the ENTIRE novel. THAT IS PART OF WHY WE FELL IN LOVE WITH RICHARD… HIS WANT TO NOT TAKE LIFE in the beginning. He had to come to terms with his anger, and later with the horrors he inflicted with the sword. This character is EXACTLY the opposite.
They turned Kahlan into a RUDE, POMPUS, ARROGANT B*TCH that keeps staring at Richard like she just wants to rip his clothes off. I’ll stop there, because to more I think on it, the more UTTERLY DISSAPPOINTED I GET.
And as for Tim’s comment on “it is hardly the stuff of drama”… I’m afraid, my friend you know little of drama. Drama is the struggle. The object is the information, not the book. And as for the dumb comment on the HARRY POTTER reference… Wizards first rule was published in 1994, while Potters first was in 1997. So unless Terry Goodkind invented a device to see into the future… I think he wrote his story a few years before J.K. Rawling. Rahl is the original blond bad guy… The exception to the “dark haired bad guy rule”.
Anyway, I think I personally alone since 1994 have converted at least 200 people into Goodkind fans with the book… And though it is Mr. Goodkind’s story, as a writer I believe that once a story is written and then falls into the hearts of the reader… it is no longer the authors story. I won’t waste another minute watching this destruction of something beautiful.
To Mr. Raime… I have absolutely NO more faith in anything you put your name to. (By the way, as for “needing a resolution at the end of every episode”… you don’t. Drama is also leaving the person wanting to catch what happens.)
To Mr. Goodkind… I will read EVERYTHING you publish if it has the caliber of the books written, but I know you also must be utterly disappointed in what has happened.
Jesse Kidd says
I will have to regretfully agree with JD. Raimi completely buthchered the essence of the sword of truth series with irreversible mistakes. How could the boundry been taken down. How can they not have Darken Rahl come to Hartland and Kill George Cypher. How does Richard get named Seeker without proving he seaches for the truth i.e. Guessing Who Zedd really is. He didnt kill 20-30 people until Stone of Tears. The Wayward pine seen was completly etched out by a arrogant Kahlan. She has th appearance but like the other actors except maybe Zedd and Darken Rahl play their parts backwards. I just don’t get why they couldn’t put every aspect of the story in except maybe the gore. I mean Zedd doesnt even cross the boundry with Richard and Khlan and heck those 2 used the Darkstone to get through anyways. I will continue to watch the show for Terry Goodkind’s sake. New Zealand though was the Perfect Setting for this series.
ejdalise says
OK then . . . I can scratch that off my list of things to watch. Thanks (and no, I don’t mean that sarcastically).
Summer Brooks says
To be honest, we already knew that there was no way they could stick faithfully to the series. Raimi and Tapert gave us Hercules and Xena (I honestly thought Xena was a better overall story than Hercules), so I think they were just in search of a well-known fantasy series that they could “adapt” to a new TV series.
I saw the rough cut of the 2hr premiere a couple weeks ago (without finished SFX), and having only read the first book in the series a *long* ass time ago, I didn’t see anything wrong with what was on screen. As a sword/sorcery story to reel viewers in, it has potential. As a faithful adaptation of the story Goodkind told, big swing and a miss.
That’s just my two cents. I’m going to watch the finished premiere eps (they don’t air here in Phoenix until Sunday evening), just to see what they did differently with the special effects, and I may watch the next two episodes to see how it progresses, but as of yet I’m not sure if it’s something I’ll follow consistently… leaning towards “nah”.
Ringettebabe says
I have been anticipating this premiere for a very long time now & the opening 10minutes that we got to watch a couple of weeks ago was amazing… it got me really psyched! However, I just finished watching the 2 hour series premiere and I can’t help but be a bit disappointed.
I agree with many of you who have stated that we cannot expect the TV series to be the same as the books… I was just excited to see on TV the characters that I have grown to love. But, I felt like it was just a lot of haphazard running around. there were a couple of bloopers as well
(1) Kahlan, Zedd & Richard had already decided that the Dahara’an guard must have gone towards the boundary as he must have another means of crossing. Then, they quiz Richard on the exact same question not too long after and were impressed by his answer… ??
(2) Then we see that the Dahra’an guard has made it back from across the now bridgeless ravine to talk to Richards brother ??
(3) Plus, Kahlan changed into a new green dress while they were at Chase’s house and yet at the end of the show she’s mysteriously back in her white Confessors dress to do a fight scene.
I’ve heard some people complain that it’s nowhere near as humour-filled as in the Hercules & Xena series but that’s a good thing… that would even further destroy the message of the series. The books have their own sense of humour and putting in a character like Joxcer would only ruin it further, in my opinion.
Now, not all is bad… while a lot of people are bashing the fight scenes, I find them quite entertaining. I like Zedd’s, Chase’s and Kahlan’s characters but I still have a bit of a reservation about Richard.
All in all, I hope that they’ve got their jitters out of the way for the rest and can make something more out of it.
Tim says
J.D. – My points are a taken a bit out of context. I am not referring to the literary Harry Potter, but what everyone and their brother has seen in the first 5 movies. People are so used to a blond evil nemesis, that those who do not know the WFR story like we do would jump in there with that critique.
As for the Book of Counted Shadows, I stand by point, which is something that exists merely in Richard’s head is hard to make dramatic on screen. Let’s see where they take that storyline anyway in the next few weeks. Remember, with magic, all types of things are possible.
I did an experiment…I watched this with my wife and 12-year old son, both of whom had never read the books, They just know that I did. I did point out some of the differences to them, but it didn’t matter…they LOVED it.
So, this is TV for the mass audience. It wasn’t really made with the Goodkind devotee in mind. Although I have seen comments from others who say they simply switched off their Goodkind radars and enjoyed the show for what it was.
For me, liking the books but not devoted to them, it was an enjoyable 2 hours and i look forward to the next installment.
Marlena says
I have mixed emotions. It has been a long time since I also read the book so some of the details are a little fuzzy. That having been said, however, Darken Rahl’s character did disappoint me since I pictured him as a demonically beautiful, terrifying, evil BLONDE dude. This character fell extremely flat. He was barely sinister.
I couldn’t care less if Kahlan has green eyes or not, and I was pleasantly surprised by Zedd’s character as in the pictures I just didn’t see it.
What really bothered me though, was Richard’s character. Not the actor portraying him, but someone we view immediately as a strong, sturdy, reliable,
INTELLIGENT, intense man in his own right. He was barely believable as an experienced woods guide for pete’s sake.
Anyway, maybe as the series progresses it will all fall into place.
I did think the opening scene was kick a$$ and my husband, who also never read the series thought it was a pretty cool pilot. So grin and bear it, or don’t tune in – Good Luck to the series and the producers!! Long live Lord Rahl!!
Shanae says
OK – I haven’t read Terry Goodkind’s books – but judging from all the controversial reactions, I guess now I’ll have to.
I did, however, like what I saw in the 2hr premiere of this show, and am looking forward to more.
Only thing – why can’t I get any Schedules on CW (I’m in LAX)..?? It’s supposed to be on Saturdays, but I can’t find it anywhere on any TV Schedule Guide. Nor on CW’s website. So…can anyone help me out here..??
Quipvigilant says
Well, I got exactly what i expected from the show, and I didn’t expect much. Sex, violence and drama are the key elements that sell on television I believe, and that’s what was delivered. As for following the books storyline….I didn’t expect it to happen, and it didn’t. Changes had to be made for it to be more compelling for a television audience, and some things just don’t translate from book to TV, that’s the way it is for ALL books made into the movie/Television format. ………….It may not be the same as the books that I read but I’m still going to watch (out of curiosity) to see that changes that were made. Who knows? I may even grow to like the TV series more as it matures…well…if it lasts long enough to mature. Just watch it with an open mind, keeping in mind that you are NOT going to get what you want out of the show. It’s a different form of entertainment. Those who have not read the books may very well love the show, where as those who have read the books may not watch it. To each his own I say.
angela says
you can not possibly think of kahlan as blonde. cara is blonde, nicci is blonde although with nicci’s personality being so dark all the time and wearing black i always imagine her with dark hair. but you can not screw up kahlan. how many times in the book does richard look at her and think of her green eyes and her long brown hair and the smile she gives no one but him. but these are features you cannot screw up or dispute.
st. perseus says
i’m still undecided as to whether i’ll watch more. does anyone know if it’ll be available on iTunes? also, this is a really funny blog post for why you should keep watching it….the rest of her stuff is pretty on target with my preferences too:
http://dorkscape.wordpress.com/2008/10/30/tv-fantasy-full-of-cliches-still-entertaining/
Wally says
Worst try ever did see the 10 minute trailer, what a bad try.
only good things are the scenery and the actress playing Kahlan.
Typical american style not class to build up suspense just change the perspective so you can let the hero be a hero from the start whith out any build up to it. I did expect some changes but these are total against the spirit off the books.
Had me doubts after the last three books but seems clear to me Goodkind is cashing on his succesfull books.
Oh well at least you don’t have to buy it to find out the end like the books:P
Regards,
Wally
SerenaG says
I think a lot of you are confusing Kahlan with Nicci. She was a Sister of the Dark that converted back to the side of good. She was also very beautiful with long, blonde hair and blue eyes. Kahlan has ALWAYS been brunette with green eyes I believe.
Anywho, is Gratch gonna be in this new TV series? I think I will stop watching it if he isn’t in it LOL
Jimi says
Well two weeks in a row now and I am not feeling any better about the show. Last night just plain sucked. For Pete’s sake, one of the absolute best writting in any part of the SOT series was in WFR when Richard was crawling through the cave and had to squeeze through the very small opening to get to Scarlets egg, and then he got stuck while only partially theough, only to be attacked while still stuck by the Shadrin. I litterly caught myself gasping for breath (although I do have a slight claustrophobia streak) while reading this part. I realize they are completly breaking from the story line of the books, but my main point is that the way Goodkind described the Sharin in the book made me envision it almost as a quasi land octopus, but in last nights show, they made the Shadrin as a dumb goat faced huminoid. Are we next going to see Deena as a kindly gentle old lady with short hair and glasses who wears pretty pink dresses? Also, much like the gar’s have been shown, we should be seeing a little more than a one second dark glimpse of them. If a gar or in this case a Sharin is supposed to envoke nightmarish fear, then lets really get a good look at them. Please, please, please lets not ruin such a great fantisy realm as we have with the SOT series. I will of course probably give this show several more chances before finally giving up, but it so far has really broken my heart. One bright spot in this show is definitly Zed’s character. He is the only one who being played well, and why? because he is playing Zedd fairly close to the way he was written. Keep to Goodkinds creation and this show can still become great, even foregoing the true storyline which I will never understand the reasoning why they broke from it.
Marlena says
Well, I guess I won’t be able to speak my mind about the second episode since I am in Ontario and the station it played on last week didn’t air it this weekend.
What’s up with that???
So, what the heck channel was it on anyway? I watched it on WGN last week and this week, nowhere to be found.
jason says
Alright i live in the bay area and i had the same problem that marlena had. it didn’t air the second episode instead i got the second half of the first one… and i can’t seem to find it to be on this weekend. what happened to it and what channel is it on. their home webpage is no help at all.
Nadejda says
I think that the main problem in this show is the actors for main characters. They couldnรขโฌโขt act (only sword play0. And they do not have charisma. The previous shows Xena and Hercules had main actors who caught the eyes of viewers from the first moment. Not the same with this show
JD Honore says
Well…. here I go, probably for the very last time, as I am so utterly disgusted with this series that I refuse to watch any more of it. Unlike my other posts, this is directly going to the people that are saying, “It had to be changed for TV… Had to be altered for drama…” and all that. You see, if you read my posts, I was very open and understanding to the point of “made for TV”… But the more I see the debauchery of the most nearly perfect story since the 2 fathers of fantasy (C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien), the more I have to disagree with the thought process.
I have an idea… why try to stick to a book story line at all? It is obviously far too difficult to do, so let’s make ALL the best literature easy! Let’s start with Lord of the Rings. Let’s make it really easy… skip all that fellowship crap, the struggles of Samwise and Frodo, and the whole journey… That takes far too long, and the “stupid people of society” won’t get it anyway… Let’s instead make Frodo a Mordor Orc! Yeah, that way he doesn’t even have to go anywhere and he can accidentally drop the One Ring in the river of fire while he is taking a crap. We could cut a 9 hour movie down to a 15 minute commercial!!! (In case you don’t get it… that was SARCASM!!!)
I am beginning to feel like I live in a society mostly populated by Eloi. (Yes, another literary reference… and if you don’t know what Eloi are… LOOK IT UP. Better yet, READ A BOOK. The Eloi sure wouldn’t) We are so fine with accepting mediocrity that we stop striving all together to create ART. Our complacency has become the downfall of television, movies, books, and music. If you expect CRAP, that is what they will give… start demanding more… To quote a GREAT book, “Your life is YOURS alone… RISE UP AND LIVE IT!” Make these ‘so called artist, producers, directors, writers’ stop offering up dung for the masses. Here’s a little secret… THINKING IS GOOD!!!
You feel that spark of either anger, or joy, you just received by reading the top half of my post?!…. Yeah… that is what the ACTUAL Sword of Truth books are about. INSPIRATION, THOUGHT, real ART!!!
For all of you that have read the books and love them, you understand what I am saying.
For all of you that have read the books, yet love this series, my best… but you really should read more. Writing is an art, as is the effort of literature. The fantastic blend of the rounded character a reader either comes to love or hate, and the completion of a hole-less storyline.
For those that are watching the series and haven’t read the books, PLEASE, don’t judge the books by this pathetic attempt to dumb it down for the masses. READ THEM! Yes they are big books… but you’d feel proud of this accomplishment! They are WORTH it!
My Best To All. J.D
SerenaG says
I’m still waiting for Gratch…Now I haven’t read the first few books of the series in a long time *unfortunately my cat got a little frisky one day and ripped them =X* but they are murdering this show. First off, the guy who plays Richard is WAYYY too small in my opinion…Tall, dark hair with raptor gray eyes. Now granted the guy is good looking and all but way too playboy for me. I WANT GRATCH!!!
oh, and the girl that plays Kahlan I think isn’ twhat I pictured. she doesn’t look “dangerous” as Kahlan’s father was a king who was a great warrior /swordsman. ugh.
Shanae says
OK, unlike most of you, I DO like this show – a lot. It has the right balance, between good, evil, lots of action and suspense, and good chemistry and subtle sexual tension between the two lead characters. Perhaps it’s because I have NOT read the books [yet], so it’s much easier for me to take things at face value. Meanwhile, I’m really enjoying the show – love the magic – and keep looking forward to the following episodes. This may sound silly, but somehow I suspect that Richard is his enemy’s son – the one called Rahl, is his name..?? The evil one he’s seeking to kill..?? Don’t tell me – let it be a surprise.
rose says
The best book I have ever read has been ruined lets all try and get over it maybe they will make something we are willing to except eventually but I donรขโฌโขt se that happening in the next 20 years or so.
Ivy says
*******Look up Zen Gesner … he used to play Sinbad in the adventures of sinbad, he would be PERFECT!!! to play Richard Rahl… He’s witty, he has the look, everything just screams Richard… *****
Quipvigilant says
All those I’ve talked to who HAVEN’T read the books, like the show. Most that I’ve talked to who HAVE read the books…don’t like the show. lol… I on the other hand, have read the books and I do like the show. Yes, it’s not the same as the books, I did not expect it to be like the books, BUT… I do find the show entertaining. And I think that’s what they probably set out to do ultimately….to entertain the masses. Yes, it would have been wonderful to watch the Sword of Truth come to life on the small screen…… but we got The Legend of the Seeker…. although it is a poor imitation of the books, it does entertain.
OH! And I cant believe that some of you are still hung up on that “is Kahlan brunette or blond” issue….. lol ….. to funny.
To all of you out there who have yet to read the books, please do so, you’ll be happy you did.
To all of you who have not watched the show because of what you’ve read here, please watch it, you never know, you may like it. (It’s sort of like my son who “hates” certain foods that he’s NEVER tried….all I can ask is, How do you know, unless you try?)
Jan says
I think Zed’s character is all wrong in the show. He is just creepy and has no sense of playfulness or humor and no zest for life like the Zed in the books. I just can’t see that actor successfully pulling off “The toasted toad’s truth” or even a simple “Bags!” Rather, I pictured Zed more like Christopher Lloyd in Back to the Future, even down to the wild hair.
I do agree with Ivy about Zen Gesner being a good choice for Richard. Nice pick Ivy!
Bottom line, even discounting the books altoghether, the TV series is flat, hollow and just seems to meander about aimlessly. The characters lack any depth and the story line…what story line?
A major dissapointment. I’ve stopped watching.
Quipvigilant says
For those few that may still have some interest, here are some images of Denna….just click on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th of the smaller pics there to see her…
http://www.legendoftheseeker.com/gallery.html
Anne says
…..adding to the various comments I’ve been reading here. Forget the damn books people! Just ENJOY! the friggen program for cripe sake. Who cares what color the hair should be! and to Nadejda on her character comment, get a life!!!!
I love this show – it’s a hell of a lot better that most shows out these days!!!!!!
Daniel Gunther says
It’s sad to see so many people that have watched this complete travesty of an adaptation brought to us by Raimi and the rest of his sycophants. The show has deviated so horribly from Mr. Goodkind’s original work that it no longer has the same feel and failed to capture the journey and development of Richard from a simple woods guide looking for clues to his adoptive father’s murderer into the Seeker who uses the Wizard’s First Rule (People believe what they want to believe, ie. they’re stupid) against Rahl. The show does not have any of the amazing character development and dynamics that exist in the novels. Raimi and Disney have failed horribly. The only reason why the show is coming back, because the people making the show have used the Wizard’s First Rule masterfully. I’m not a big fan of Harry Potter, but the people adapting those novels to the movies have done light years better than the Wile E. Coyote super genius’ working on this show. For me, this show is a complete and total failure. Those that enjoy it. if you haven’t, read the books and see how the story SHOULD be told. For those that have read the books, don’t waste your time or intelligence to watch Legend of the Seeker, it’s just painful. The only redeeming quality – BARELY, is that this show has, is that it’s not another damned reality show being shoved down everyone’s throats.
Suzy says
I didn’t expect the show to be exactly as the books read. I really didn’t. But I expected decent acting and something to really enjoy watching. Not every episode will be terrific, I’ll grant you that. But most of the plots have been lame, not at all like the wonderful talent of Mr. Goodkind. I expected Richard to be more of a stronger character that some wide-eyed boy. Terrible acting and….oh, I won’t go any further. No need to. It seems like many others here agree that the show fell far short of our expectations. Let’s hope the writers come up with better plots when the new season starts. I guess that won’t be until November. And like someone else here, I hope we get to see Gratch.
Daniel says
Haaha..I like the reference used on a post I saw about Zedd being reduced to a portable lighter…if I read correctly wizard’s fire is supposed to be a freakin ball of liquid fire that bursts on impact and keeps burning something akin to the way napalm works. According to Sam Raimi, it works like some kinda ray gun. And COME ON..where’s all the blood in Richard’s torcher with Denna? Okay so its a Disney production – so they should have gone with HBO or something instead of watering down all the violence and therefore all the raw emotions experienced in the books. But these are only minor things I think one of the most important parts of the book that was changed was the way that Richard kills Denna (aside from the fact she came back to life which never happened in the book). He simply says in the show that he was able to kill her because she taught him how to take pain? Unbelievable! MMMWAH! You broke my heart Sam! You BROKE MY HEART! The only way I can continue to watch the show is by reminding myself constantly that it’s the Legend of the Seeker show and a far cry from what loyal fans of Goodkind know as The Sword of Truth series. Aside from all this I think the casting is fine save Richard being NOT AT ALL who I would’ve picked for the part. Peter Jackson even modified some things in the Lord of the Rings that was a slight disappointment but still one could only hope that someone with his passion and caring will do the same for Goodkind’s work one day. That he would endorse this is just sad, but like I said it’s not called the Sword of Truth show either …still I say do it right or don’t do it at all.
Daniel says
So, Mr. Goodkind, how much did they pay you to totally flip your story on its head? I can’t blame a man for wanting to make an honest buck but you call this honest? This remake “parody” as I like to call it on your remarkable books is just too much. It it no way reflects the philosophy of objectivism that is so clearly woven into the S.O.T. series. Yes, and being a devout fan of yours I actually made it to the “Hartland” episode (if you can call a “devout” fan of yours someone who could actually put up with the raping of your stories long enough to make it to this episode without smashing their TV screen). Believe that? Then I witnessed the oh-so-predictable change of heart (so stereotypical of any other random cheesy feel-good tv series these days) that Michael had in this episode when he decided to instead fight for Richard at the end and die valiantly on the edge of a sword????? WOW!! What a slaying I witnessed of such a brilliant story at this slaying! WHAT, pray tell, was wrong with the original story that MICHAEL WAS A TRAITOR UNTIL THE VERY END, FINALLY FACING EXECUTION AT THE HANDS OF NONE OTHER THAN HIS ADOPTED BROTHER RICHARD THE SEEKER HIMSELF??!! For the life of me even if this series is a totally revisionist effort in contrast to the books (which it obviously is), why weaken and water it down to the bare essentials of a children’s bedtime story? All to appeal to the brain-dead Eloi masses in order to win over the largest audience? Probably not too far from the truth… however, this total revision and subversion strays so far from the meat, the very heart of the original story that it cannot even fall into the same category as The Sword of Truth series (And I’m not talking about the storyline, I mean the very SOUL of the story and anyone who has read the books knows what I am talking about). And if anyone watching this show is trying to decide if the books are worth reading let me just say that this show could NEVER do the books even a mere 1% justice. What crap. Mr. Goodkind, I love your books but you ought to be ashamed.
Brian Brown says
BWHAHAHAHAHAH! I love these rambling comments ALMOST more then the Hulu ones.
Shelly says
Okay. Just discoved this show by channel surfing last weekend cause nothing was on. It looked pretty interesting so I stopped. Then it hit me on the names. I couldn’t believe my ears. There it was, my most favorite books coming to life on tv. I only caught the last 15 minutes of it, but it was enough. I was hooked. I went to the computer and looked it up and wouldn’t you know it the whole series was right there for me to watch. Well I have watched the whole series and I must say that I can’t wait for more!!! I love the actors and I think they are doing a wonderful job. But I must confess that Zedd took me by surprise. I always pictured him as a wiry old stooped man with wild hair. This Zedd is tall, straight back, long white hair and fairly clean and well dressed. But I fell for this character. Great job. Chase on the other hand, that everyone seems to screaming over, was a white man in the book. Okay so he’s black now. But if you know your actors and you know how many movies this man has played in you would realize that he’s perfect for the part. When I saw him, yes I was shocked, but got over it quickly when I realized who it was. Then I cheered him on. Perfect choice again. So on to Richard and Kahlan. I’m sorry people but I love these actors and I wish them all the success in the world. They give a fresh look on the series. Matter of fact all the characters I give ten thumbs up!(if I had that many). the only thing that worries me is they are only doing 22 episodes. I really hope they do more than this. Everytime I get into a show they take it off. So please to whom it may concern…Keep it going!!!!
CuttieGirl says
I think Richard is cute jest the way he is. Dave for god sake watch the show and read the books its her sisters hair that is blond. Her name is spelled K-a-h-l-e-n not K-h-a-l-a-n sound it out. You learn that in first grade.
hrennie says
Alot of people are upset because of the look of the characters, but even if they had not made this series no one person would be right about what they really looked like except for Goodkind because they are from his imagination. In saying that I will admit I was confused about Darken Rhal. To me he seemed to be the only character way off base in appearance in every way. I started reading the series after my husband begged me to read them when he finished Confessor, and I did. Starting with Debt of Bones though. I felt horrible that it was over. And I remember when Raina died in Temple of the Winds. It was so sudden and so unexpected and she was my favorite mord sith (at the time). I just started crying so hard. And my daughter who was 11 at the time of course asked me what was wrong and I explained to her a little of what the books were about. She loves to read and wanted to read them so badly, but those who have read the books of course knew it was out of the question she had to wait untill she was older. So I had to tell her about the books as I read them In PG form. So no matter how the show deviates from the books my daughter can watch the tv show. And so can your young adults, if you have any , enjoy this great and amazing set of books that is the best series i’ve read so far. We had the books, we know some of the terrible things that happened. Lets give the younger ones a chance to enjoy it in a form better suited for them. Maby that was Goodkinds plan all along?