John Rhys-Davies, celebrated for his role as Gimli in The Lord of the Rings, has showcased his diverse acting skills through various characters, including Treebeard and Sallah in Indiana Jones. As anticipation grows for upcoming Tolkien projects like The Rings of Power and The War of the Rohirrim, Rhys-Davies hinted at the possibility of reprising Gimli in The Hunt for Gollum, aided by modern CGI. At 80, he remains hopeful about returning to the iconic role.
John Rhys-Davies: More Than Just Gimli
Renowned for his role in J.R.R. Tolkien’s adaptations, John Rhys-Davies has become a household name, captivating audiences with his portrayal of Gimli in The Lord of the Rings. However, his talents extend far beyond this iconic Dwarf. Rhys-Davies also brought to life the beloved Ent, Treebeard, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Beyond Tolkien’s universe, Rhys-Davies has made his mark in various films and series, including his memorable role as Sallah in the Indiana Jones franchise. His voice has graced animated characters, such as those in SpongeBob SquarePants, and he has lent his skills to video games like Baldur’s Gate and the upcoming Squadron 42. While many may recognize him primarily as Gimli, his extensive career is a testament to his multifaceted talent.
The Anticipated Return of Gimli
As the excitement builds around The Rings of Power and the forthcoming animated film, The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim, fans are eager to see familiar faces return to Middle-earth. The animated movie is scheduled for a December 11 release, followed by The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum in 2026, which is expected to bridge the storyline between The Hobbit films.
In a recent interview, John Rhys-Davies expressed the possibility of reprising his role as Gimli in The Hunt for Gollum. Although he previously declined to return for The Hobbit due to the physical demands of the role, advancements in CGI technology could make it easier for him to step back into character without enduring the extensive makeup process. At 80 years old, Rhys-Davies is optimistic about the prospect of returning to the screen as Gimli, provided the role allows for a more comfortable performance.
As the world of Tolkien continues to expand, fans are left hopeful that the beloved Dwarf will once again grace the screen, proving that age is just a number in the realm of storytelling.