Prime Video's The Wheel of Time didn't deliver Egwene's full potential

Amazon Prime Video's The Wheel of Time has been canceled after three seasons, which left several fans disappointed. Created by Rafe Judkins, this series features Natasha O'Keeffe, Rosamund Pike, and Daniel Henney, to name a few. Adapted from Robert Jordan's fantasy novel series, it has a 7.2/10 rating on IMDb and 88% on Rotten Tomatoes.

The abrupt cancellation of a fan-favorite series left the fans quite disappointed, as it didn't wrap up the storyline and failed to provide closure to such well-developed and complex characters. Particularly Perrin Aybara and the Whitecloaks' story arc, and even Mat Cauthon's.

Among the numerous loose threads left unaddressed by the show, one character who was largely ignored in the final season was Egwene al'Vere, played by Madeleine Madden.

The Wheel of Time Season 3 gave Egwene no payoff for her growth

Egwene had a powerful storyline in The Wheel of Time Season 2 that showcased her strength and resilience, but Season 3 didn't do justice to the character. In Season 3, Egwene spends most of her time in the Aiel Waste alongside Rand al'Thor, following her decision to stay with him. While she learns to navigate Tel'aran'rhiod, the dream world, she also learns about Rand's relationship with Lanfear. However, instead of confronting, she helps Rand to capture Lanfear and, using her special dreamwalking abilities, throws Lanfear out of the dream realm. Egwene still doesn't confront Rand throughout the season and is present when Rand is declared the Car'a'carn.

With the show's cancellation, her story ends without real resolution or growth. Egwene's major Season 3 moments amount to emotional support and background presence. It's a frustrating contrast to the high-stakes role she played in the previous seasons.

The Wheel of Time missed the chance to explore Egwene's Amyrlin Seat arc

What makes Egwene's stalled arc so disappointing is that the ones who have read Jordan's books know exactly what happens next and how compelling it is. In Lord of Chaos, the sixth novel in the series, Egwene is unexpectedly chosen as Amyrlin Seat by the rebel Aes Sedai in Salidar. It's a twist that elevates her into the political center of the series and tests her in ways no battle or magic duel could. Egwene outmaneuvers the seasoned Aes Sedai who try to manipulate her, and she becomes a true leader. Her political power also aids Rand in the Last Battle.

The show had already laid the groundwork, especially as she bravely fought against the Seanchen. But Season 3 didn't even tease this major development, leaving viewers unaware of what they missed. Without this critical storyline, Egwene's character is left half-formed and her full potential unseen and unexplored.

Had The Wheel of Time been renewed for a few more seasons, Egwene's rise could have been one of the show's defining arcs. In the end, Prime Video's adaptation did many things right—but when it came to Egwene, it left its most powerful story untold.

The Wheel of Time is available to watch on Amazon Prime Video.

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Also read: The Wheel of Time Season 3 Episode 5 recap: Rand, Egwene, and Perrin's Trials

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