Where Are The ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ Actors Now?

While we can’t speak for darkness, The Lord of the Rings trilogy and its characters have certainly bound themselves to fans' hearts. Even two decades later, the series continues to hold a cherished place among its audience, the cast, and its creators. Its enduring legacy has given rise to spin-offs like The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power on Prime Video, along with video games and other media.
However, for many fans, the nostalgia of the original trilogy overshadows any new adaptations, sparking countless re-watch marathons. As fans remain captivated by the classics, the cast of The Lord of the Rings has long moved beyond the Shire. Actors like Elijah Wood, Sir Ian McKellen, and Andy Serkis, among others, have pursued diverse and noteworthy projects since their time in Middle-earth. The trilogy also played a pivotal role in launching the careers of several of its cast members.
Before exploring what the actors are up to today, let’s revisit the magical realm of Mordor, the Shire, and the epic journey that brought them together.
Revisiting The Lord of the Rings and Its Ensemble Cast
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Adapted from J.R.R. Tolkien’s legendary novels, Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy (2001–2003) stands as one of the most celebrated cinematic achievements of all time. Grossing over $2.99 billion worldwide and winning 17 Academy Awards, the trilogy set a benchmark in filmmaking.
The three films—The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King—were shot simultaneously in New Zealand. Set in Middle-earth, the story follows Frodo Baggins (played by Elijah Wood) as he inherits a magical ring from his uncle Bilbo Baggins (Ian Holm). Guided by Gandalf the Grey (Sir Ian McKellen), Frodo embarks on a perilous journey to Mordor with the help of his loyal friend Samwise Gamgee (Sean Astin).
Now, let’s take a closer look at where the cast members are today.
The Cast of The Lord of the Rings: Then and Now
Elijah Wood as Frodo Baggins
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Despite playing a character who becomes invisible with the ring, Elijah Wood’s career post-The Lord of the Rings has been anything but hidden. He starred in critically acclaimed films like Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004), Sin City (2005), and Bobby (2006). Wood also ventured into voice acting for films such as Happy Feet (2006) and The Wind Rises (2014).
In addition to reprising Frodo in The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, Wood co-founded the film production company SpectreVision in 2013. His recent projects include the 2023 superhero horror-comedy The Toxic Avenger. Up next, he will star in the supernatural horror film The Monkey.
Wood is married to Danish producer Mette-Marie Kongsved, and they have two children.
Sean Astin as Samwise Gamgee
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Sean Astin’s post-Middle-earth career includes roles in 50 First Dates (2004), Click (2006), and Stranger Things (2017). Astin has also lent his voice to animated series like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
His recent appearances include roles in Hard Miles (2023) and The Shift (2023). Astin is married to Christine Harrell, with whom he shares three daughters.
Orlando Bloom as Legolas
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Orlando Bloom became a household name, starring in blockbuster franchises like Pirates of the Caribbean and films such as Troy (2004) and Kingdom of Heaven (2005). His most recent work includes Carnival Row (2019–2023) and the upcoming movie Wizards!
Bloom is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and has a daughter with singer Katy Perry.
Sir Ian McKellen as Gandalf
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A theater and film legend, Sir Ian McKellen continued his stellar career with roles in the X-Men series, The Da Vinci Code (2006), and Waiting for Godot. He also reprised Gandalf in The Hobbit trilogy and most recently appeared in The Critic (2023).
Andy Serkis as Gollum
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Renowned for his motion-capture performances, Andy Serkis brought characters like Caesar (Planet of the Apes) and Supreme Leader Snoke (Star Wars) to life. He transitioned to directing with Venom: Let There Be Carnage (2021). Serkis is also set to direct and star in The Hunt for Gollum, slated for a 2026 release.
Cate Blanchett as Galadriel
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Cate Blanchett’s illustrious career includes Academy Award-winning performances in The Aviator (2004) and Blue Jasmine (2013). She has starred in major hits like Thor: Ragnarok (2017) and Ocean’s 8 (2018). Upcoming projects include Disclaimer on Apple TV+ and the video game adaptation Borderlands.
Liv Tyler as Arwen
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After her role as Arwen, Liv Tyler appeared in films like The Incredible Hulk (2008) and HBO’s The Leftovers. She will reprise her role as Betty Ross in Captain America: Brave New World (2024).
Viggo Mortensen as Aragorn
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Viggo Mortensen explored diverse roles in films like Eastern Promises (2007) and Crimes of the Future (2021). Beyond acting, Mortensen is an accomplished poet and musician. His recent work includes The Dead Don’t Hurt (2023).