Stephen Colbert's forthcoming Lord of the Rings movie is generating discussion among fans. This new project will function as a sequel of sorts while simultaneously revisiting events from the original adaptation, told through the perspective of Sam, Merry, Pippin, and Sam’s daughter, Elanor.

Opportunities Arising from Cut Book Content

The specific book chapters being adapted were largely omitted from the original films due to runtime constraints. However, these sections feature several J.R.R. Tolkien characters absent from the movies, including a tense encounter with a Barrow-wight.

The newly announced film presents an exciting opportunity to weave these supporting players into Warner Bros.’ franchise. While some characters hold minor importance, others play significant roles in Frodo’s early journey, despite their exclusion from the initial cinematic versions.

Ranking the Potential Newcomers by Significance

The Lower Tier: Allies and Family Connections

6. Hamfast Gamgee (The Gaffer)

Samwise Gamgee’s father, Hamfast Gamgee, marries his daughter at the end of the book, but he was not seen in the films. He serves as a useful ally to Frodo in Tolkien’s text and actively participates in the Battle of Bywater.

While the Battle of Bywater won't be depicted in Colbert’s film, there is a possibility of hearing more about Hamfast through his granddaughter, Elanor. Given the focus on Sam’s family in the future timeline, his presence is plausible, though he ranks lowest on this list due to his likely minor role.

5. Ted Sandyman

Ted Sandyman’s role is significantly reduced in the films. He will likely be better known in Colbert’s movie, as Frodo, Sam, and Pippin dine at his home during one of the adapted chapters.

Ted also escorts the hobbits to the Bucklebury Ferry afterward. Although this is not a major part, he acts as an ally early in the hobbits’ quest and may be portrayed more favorably than in the prior adaptation.

The Middle Tier: Mysterious Figures and Essential Helpers

4. Goldberry

During the chapters Colbert’s movie plans to cover, Tom Bombadil and his wife, Goldberry, take in the hobbits. Neither character appeared in Jackson’s trilogy but debuted on screen in 2024 during The Rings of Power Season 2.

Both figures are enigmatic, offering shelter and care to Frodo and his companions. Goldberry remains more on the sidelines compared to her husband, meaning her importance will likely not surpass his, even if the film expands her role.

3. Fatty Bolger

While Sam, Merry, and Pippin are famous for their loyalty, fans may overlook another friend: Fatty Bolger. He is present in the early chapters of The Fellowship of the Ring, a presence barely acknowledged in the films.

Like the others, Bolger knows about Frodo’s mission, but he aids his friend by remaining behind. In the source material, Frodo sells Bag End and buys another house to maintain the illusion that he still resides there, using this as a cover for his departure.

Fatty Bolger stays at Crickhollow to keep up appearances, a crucial task that aids Frodo’s secrecy. Because this role requires minimal screen time, he sits in the middle of this importance ranking.

The Top Tier: The Film's Central Conflict and Hero

2. The Barrow-wight

The core conflict in Colbert’s film should center on the kidnapping of the hobbits by a Barrow-wight, an undead creature absent from the original film adaptations. Tolkien offers little background characterization for the Barrow-wight from the start of The Fellowship of the Ring.

Unless the movie introduces new obstacles, this creature will be the primary challenge the characters must overcome. This makes the Barrow-wight one of the most important elements in this specific film, even if it lacks overall franchise influence.

1. Tom Bombadil

The only character slated to be more crucial than the Barrow-wight is the one who defeats it and redirects the hobbits. Tom Bombadil is undoubtedly going to be central, making his first big-screen appearance in the upcoming film.

Tolkien’s most mysterious character repeatedly assists the hobbits early in their journey. Crucially, he rescues them from the Barrow-wight, positioning him as the hero of these specific chapters and a pivotal player in the Ring’s destruction, as Frodo might not have progressed without him.

Previous adaptations have omitted Tom Bombadil, so it will be fascinating to see if Colbert’s movie presents the character in a new light.