Getting married in the Shire is already a dream for every fan of The Lord of the Ringsbut for an Australian couple reality surpassed fantasy. Sharik and Jessica Burgess-Stride said “yes” in Hobbiton, New Zealand, on the famous film set created by Peter Jackson. The ceremony, with attention to the smallest details with costumes inspired by Middle Earth, became memorable when an unexpected guest made his appearance: Elijah Wood, the actor who played Frodo Baggins.
The highlight occurred while the bride and groom were signing the wedding documents. Among a group of tourists visiting the set, a figure with bright blue eyes attracted the attention of the guests. He was not a fan, but the Ring-bearer himself. Wood approached discreetly, complimented the bride and groom and took a few photos, without ever stealing the show from the couple.
A surprise worthy of Tolkien
The day, which began in the rain, seemed to come straight out of a chapter of the book: shortly before the ceremony, the sky opened and the sun illuminated the green and golden County. The guests, dressed as Hobbits, Elves and even a “ring bearer” dressed as Gollum, watched the scene with wide eyes. “It was surreal” said the bride “we certainly didn’t expect Frodo at our wedding”.
Hobbiton Tours staff also confirmed that Wood was there on a private visit and stumbled upon the wedding by chance. Photographer Cath Ullyett captured the moment, calling the actor “very kind and respectful“. Needless to say, the video of the meeting, published on social media, went viral in just a few hours. Perhaps you don’t need magic rings to make a wedding unforgettable: just a touch of cinematic magic and a visit from a true hero of Middle Earth.
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