The cast of "The Lord of the Rings" | Source: Getty Images

25 Years After the Ring Was Destroyed: How 'The Lord of the Rings' Cast Has Changed

Jan 16, 2026

08:24 A.M.

Packed with unforgettable performances and visual grandeur, the hit franchise introduced audiences to a cast of rising stars and seasoned icons — all of whom are featured in a striking series of then and now images at the end of this article.

It has been a quarter of a century since Frodo Baggins first set out from the Shire, tasked with one of the most perilous journeys in cinematic history.

What began with a whisper of danger in the tranquil fields of Hobbiton grew into an epic trilogy that would change the landscape of fantasy filmmaking forever.

Directed by Peter Jackson and based on the beloved novels by J. R. R. Tolkien, "The Fellowship of the Ring" premiered in 2001 and brought Middle-earth to life with stunning scope and emotional depth.

Its tale of courage, loyalty, and sacrifice launched the careers of Elijah Wood and Viggo Mortensen, among others. It was also brought to life by a cast that included Ian McKellen, Sean Astin, Dominic Monaghan, Billy Boyd, Orlando Bloom, Liv Tyler, Hugo Weaving, Cate Blanchett, and more.

The trilogy – "The Fellowship of the Ring," "The Two Towers," and "The Return of the King" – captured the imaginations of millions and earned its place as one of cinema's most celebrated franchises.

Yet its legacy was not only defined by awards and box office success but by the friendships forged behind the scenes.

Speaking recently to Empire magazine, five of the trilogy's most iconic actors – Wood, Astin, Monaghan, Boyd, and McKellen – reunited to mark the 25th anniversary of the franchise and reflect on the bond that has endured long after the final credits rolled.

"When we finished doing 'The Lord of the Rings,' everyone was so friendly and bonded together that we agreed that wherever we happened to be in the world, we would all congregate in the same place just to renew our friendship and our fellowship and our fraternity," McKellen shared.

"And I haven't been to a single one of these reunions in 25 years! Whether they've been taking place without my knowing, well, you'll have to ask them," he added.

Monaghan was quick to set the record straight, stating, "Never, Ian. Never! The four Hobbits are very lucky because we all go to conventions together, so I think we see each other at least eight times a year. With Ian it's a little harder, but we do try our best."

Astin added, "I think it's that fact that all of us want to get together that keeps the spirit alive. It's not as though the Fellowship has utterly failed or dissolved in some way."

According to Monaghan, the cast's chemistry was instantaneous. "It was immediate, which was something that's never happened to me before or since," he said.

Wood described the production as a transformative experience, saying, "It was a really specific alchemy. It hadn't been experienced before in our lives [...] to live away from home and go on this adventure that was not unlike the adventures our characters would go on."

With such enduring camaraderie, it's no surprise that the cast sparks a wave of nostalgia online to this day, as well as a lively debate about how time has treated them.

"Galadriel and Frodo share The One Ring for they didn't age at all .Aragorn i suspicious as well😮 [sic]," one person commented, comparing the cast's seemingly ageless appearances.

Another remarked, "Elijah still legit looks 21," while someone else typed, "Does Elijah still have the ring? He hasn't aged a day…" Some went even further in their praise, as one netizen shared, "Elijah is ageing like a fine wine."

But not all responses were glowing, as one comment struck a more critical note. "Time has not been good to these icons," they added.

While the remark stood in contrast to the overwhelming admiration seen elsewhere, it reflected the reality that the passage of time spares no one — not even legends of Middle-earth.

And yet, as the cast's reunion and fan responses show, the spirit of the Fellowship remains undiminished. Whether immortalised on screen or seen through the lens of passing years, 25 years on, their bond — much like the tale they told — is still the stuff of legend.

Then

Elijah Wood poses with a subtle smile, dressed in a grey suit jacket, striped shirt, and black tie.

Sean Astin attends the 1994 Diversity Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, wearing a classic black tuxedo with a white dress shirt and black bow tie, smiling warmly for the camera.

Billy Boyd attends a special screening of The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King in New York City in 2003, wearing a brown suede-style jacket over a dark zip-up top, his wide-eyed look paired with a subtle, relaxed smile.

Dominic Monaghan attends the Rock Da House concert during Fashion Week LA in 2003 at Quixote Studios in West Hollywood, California, wearing a grey long-sleeve shirt with bold lettering, striped trousers, and a casual necklace, his slightly open-mouthed expression giving him a relaxed, edgy look.

Viggo Mortensen attends The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers Los Angeles premiere in 2002 at the Cinerama Dome Theatre in Hollywood, California, wearing a light-colored blazer over a dark button-down shirt, his calm expression and piercing gaze giving him a composed, understated look.

Liv Tyler attends the first annual UNICEF Snowflake Lighting Ceremony in 2003 in front of the Plaza Hotel in New York City, wearing a sleek black outfit with her hair pulled back, her soft smile and bright eyes giving her a polished, elegant look.

Ian McKellen in 2001, wearing a dark jacket over a striped dress shirt and patterned tie, his calm expression and piercing eyes giving him a distinguished, thoughtful look.

Orlando Bloom attends the London premiere of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring in 2001, wearing a navy suit layered over a patterned turquoise shirt and scarf, his relaxed expression giving him a confident, fashion-forward look.

Hugo Weaving attends the premiere of The Dish at the Australian Consulate Residence in New York City in 2001, wearing a dark blazer over a light blue open-collar shirt, his serious expression softened as he holds a glass of champagne.

Now

More than two decades on, Elijah Wood appeared at a screening of "Rabbit Trap" on September 9, 2025, in Los Angeles, California, looking composed and contemporary in a patterned button-up shirt and smart watch. His features remain strikingly familiar — a detail not lost on fans who continue to marvel at his seemingly ageless appearance.

At the 2026 FAN EXPO on January 11 in New Orleans, Louisiana, Sean Astin took to the stage in casual denim and a navy pullover, radiating warmth and approachability. Now a seasoned actor and fan favourite on the convention circuit, he continues to embrace the legacy of Samwise with the same sincerity that made the role unforgettable.

From a Family of Teachers, the '80s Heartthrob Keeps His Personal Life Private — What We Know About His Lifestyle

'The Goonies' Cast: Where Are They Now – 30+ Pics

Elton John's Rarely Seen Sons Zachary and Elijah Steal the Spotlight at Donatella Versace's Party — Pics

On January 11, 2026, Billy Boyd took the stage at the FAN EXPO in New Orleans, Louisiana, addressing the crowd with animated gestures and unmistakable charm. Sporting a salt-and-pepper beard and dressed in a casual black jumper, Boyd's energy was as present as ever, continuing to connect with fans who first met him in the fields of the Shire.

On January 10, 2026, Dominic Monaghan appeared on stage at the FAN EXPO in New Orleans, Louisiana, dressed in a sporty zip-up tracksuit and speaking with energy and candour. With a distinct style and laid-back confidence, he embraced his enduring place in fantasy history while continuing to engage passionately with fans new and old.

On August 24, 2025, Viggo Mortensen appeared at the Edinburgh International Book Festival in Scotland, dressed in a tan jacket and navy striped shirt. With his silver hair and thoughtful gaze, Mortensen cut a composed figure, far removed from battlefields but still carrying the gravitas of a man who once ruled Middle-earth on screen.

On October 5, 2025, Liv Tyler attended the Chloé Womenswear Spring/Summer 2026 show during Paris Fashion Week, stepping out in a sheer black ensemble with sleek styling and elegance. Still commanding attention with her luminous presence, Tyler's appearance was a graceful reminder of the timeless beauty she brought to Middle-earth.

On December 3, 2024, Ian McKellen attended the world premiere of "The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim" in London, England, dressed in a tailored black coat and patterned gold scarf. With a warm smile and a glint of mischief, McKellen's presence reminded many that the spirit of Gandalf never truly left him — or the fans.

Cate Blanchett, who portrayed the ethereal Elven queen Galadriel in "The Fellowship of the Ring" with flowing gowns, luminous skin and a voice like prophecy, attended The Fashion Awards 2025 on December 1 in London, England. Wearing a sculptural black ensemble with a modern edge, Blanchett brought the same commanding presence to the red carpet that once lit up the woods of Lothlórien.

On January 11, 2026, Orlando Bloom attended the 83rd annual Golden Globe Awards in Beverly Hills, California, dressed in a sleek tuxedo with a statement brooch. Still exuding star power decades after his breakout role, Bloom looked sharp and composed — a far cry from the woodland warrior he once portrayed, but no less striking.

On August 5, 2023, Hugo Weaving attended the world premiere of "The Rooster" at the Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) in Australia, wearing an open-collared shirt and dark jacket. With a full silver beard and steady expression, Weaving carried a grounded presence — far from the elven halls of Rivendell, yet unmistakably regal.