October 30, 2025 | 3:20pm
MANILA, Philippines — A couple had quite the precious surprise after “Lord of the Rings” star Elijah Wood unexpectedly showed up at their hobbit-themed wedding in New Zealand.
Wood was in New Zealand for the Armageddon Expo with franchise co-star Andy Serkis when he paid a visit to the Hobbiton set in Matamata, where scenes of the “Lord of the Rings” franchise were shot over two decades ago.
The location has since become a tourist attraction and even a site for fans to have their nuptials, which was the case when Wood came across an intimate wedding taking place.
Social media accounts for the Hobbiton attraction show a casually-dressed Wood appear behind wedding guests who were all wearing hobbit attires.
“Oh my God!” the groom exclaimed upon seeing Wood, who approached the couple to congratulate them just as “Concerning Hobbits” — a music track from the films — played in the background.
The actor posed for pictures with the couple, the ceremony’s presider, and a photographer before commending everyone’s commitment to the theme.
“This is amazing, and everyone is dressed as hobbits!” said Wood, who played Frodo Baggins in the popular franchise.
Thirty-nine (39) Hobbit Holes were dug across 12 acres of land in Matamata for the production of “Lord of the Rings,” which was based on the books by J.R.R. Tolkien.
By the end of filming, 17 Hobbit Holes were left standing and ultimately became a popular tourist attraction. These were again used as a set for “The Hobbit” movies with more Hobbit Holes constructed.
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