The Tolkiens criticized Peter Jackson’s ‘The Lord of the Rings’, but there’s a cameo by a family member which hardly anyone noticed
The writer’s great-grandson also makes a surprise appearance in ‘The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug’ released in 2013.
J.R.R. Tolkien left behind the ultimate masterpiece of epic fantasy—a universe that reshaped the genre forever. Peter Jackson’s film adaptation of The Lord of the Rings elevated the New Zealand director to global fame, though Tolkien’s family was never fully satisfied with the result, despite the trilogy becoming a modern classic. Interestingly, one member of the Tolkien family actually appeared on screen.
Royd Tolkien steps into middle-earth
Royd Tolkien, the great-grandson of the legendary author, works as a film producer and visited the set of The Lord of the Rings during production. Jackson offered him the chance to make a cameo, and he gladly accepted. More than a decade later, Royd returned for another cameo in The Hobbit.
Where to spot him
The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)
Royd appears early in the film during the defense of Osgiliath. He plays a southern ranger seen briefly when Faramir realizes the orcs are attacking from a different direction than expected. The battle ends in heavy losses for Gondor’s forces, and the film never reveals whether Royd’s character survives.
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (Extended Edition, 2013)
His second cameo is even harder to catch. Royd plays one of the northern men tasked with carrying the Witch-king’s sword to a tomb before it is sealed.
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