Amazon's Lord Of The Rings: Fan-Casting Every (Possible) Major Role

Whoever represents Strider of the House of Isildur must brace themselves for a multitude of comparisons to Viggo Mortensen. Nevertheless, Sam Claflin's turns in Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides and The Huntsman exhibit why he can best tackle the brooding Ranger of the North.

Mortensen lent a wonderful intensity to the wounded Aragorn throughout the Rings trilogy. The return of the king, Gondor's last hope, epitomizes the best qualities of a redemption arc. When Aragorn accepts his destiny, viewers know the emotional journey he takes to reclaim the throne.

Noble and persistent characteristics define the bulk of Sam Claflin's characters as well. Both William in The Huntsman and Philip in Pirates strive to do what's right in the face of unspeakable evil. Driven by faith or duty, they're moral leaders who choose to act no matter the outcome. Claflin's understated acting and physical capabilities would enhance the storylines featuring a young and adventurous Aragorn.

Off the battlefield, Aragorn engages in a tender relationship with royal elf Arwen. The series' Aragorn should be able to handle scenes that not only send him racing into battle but also into the arms of his paramour. In Me Before You, Claflin presents clear evidence that he can be a likable and believable love interest. If his chemistry with Emilia Clarke there carries over to his scenes with the latest Arwen, it will result in another strong relationship for Tolkien aficionados.

Though Mortensen triumphed as the reluctant ruler, Claflin can delight fans by inheriting the part.