🚨 Did you know Sean Astin gained over 13 kg (30+ pounds) to play Samwise Gamgee in The Lord of the Rings?
Before filming began, Astin was actually in excellent shape and had recently completed the Los Angeles Marathon. However, Peter Jackson envisioned Sam as a much rounder, more traditionally Hobbit-like character.
To fit the role, Astin gained more than 30 pounds and maintained the weight throughout the trilogy's lengthy production. Years later, he joked that with all the groundbreaking visual effects used in the films, they probably could have just given him a fat suit instead.
On June 20, T.A. 3018, the War of the Ring officially began.
Sauron launched a massive assault on Osgiliath to test the enemy’s strength. Faramir and Boromir were able to hold the forces of Mordor back by destroying the ancient bridge, denying them access to the west side of the river.
Sir Christopher Lee fluently recites the Ring Verse in the Black Speech of Mordor.
Sir Christopher Lee’s portrayal of Saruman in The Lord of the Rings was fueled by a profound, lifelong passion for J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth. Notably, Lee was the only member of the film's cast and crew to have actually met Tolkien in person.
As a dedicated fan, he read the trilogy once every year from its publication until his passing, developing an unparalleled mastery of Middle-earth lore and linguistics.
This deep expertise is perfectly captured in his iconic, chilling recitation of the Ring Verse inscription in the Black Speech of Mordor: