The Hobbit 2 Actors: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, the second installment in Peter Jackson's acclaimed The Hobbit trilogy, features a stellar cast of actors who bring the beloved characters of J.R.R. Tolkien's masterpiece to life. From returning favorites to exciting new faces, the cast of The Hobbit 2 is a diverse and talented group that elevates the film to new heights.

Returning Cast Members

Martin Freeman as Bilbo Baggins

Martin Freeman reprises his role as the titular character, Bilbo Baggins, the unassuming hobbit who is thrust into an epic quest. Freeman's portrayal captures the character's warmth, courage, and resilience, making him a relatable and endearing protagonist.

Ian McKellen as Gandalf the Grey

Ian McKellen returns as the wise and powerful wizard Gandalf the Grey. McKellen's performance exudes authority and compassion, guiding the company through their perilous journey.

Richard Armitage as Thorin Oakenshield

Richard Armitage returns as Thorin Oakenshield, the exiled heir to the Lonely Mountain. Armitage's portrayal captures the character's pride and determination, as well as his growing affection for Bilbo.

New Cast Members

Benedict Cumberbatch as Smaug

Benedict Cumberbatch lends his voice and motion-capture performance to Smaug, the fearsome dragon who guards the Lonely Mountain. Cumberbatch's portrayal brings the character to life with its menacing presence and malevolent cunning.

Evangeline Lilly as Tauriel

Evangeline Lilly joins the cast as Tauriel, a fierce and skilled elf-warrior. Lilly's performance captures the character's strength, loyalty, and forbidden love for Kili.

Luke Evans as Bard the Bowman

Luke Evans portrays Bard the Bowman, a skilled archer and leader of the men of Lake-town. Evans' performance brings to life the character's determination, courage, and unwavering spirit.

Supporting Cast

Ken Stott as Balin

Ken Stott returns as Balin, Thorin's loyal and wise advisor. Stott's performance exudes authority and compassion, making him a trusted confidant to the company.

Graham McTavish as Dwalin

Graham McTavish portrays Dwalin, a fierce and loyal warrior. McTavish's performance brings humor and heart to the character, making him a lovable and memorable member of the company.

Aidan Turner as Kili

Aidan Turner returns as Kili, a young and impetuous dwarf. Turner's performance captures the character's charm, courage, and growing love for Tauriel.

Cast Biographies

Martin Freeman

• Born in Aldershot, Hampshire, England, on September 8, 1971
• Notable roles: Tim Canterbury in The Office (UK), Dr. Watson in Sherlock, Everett Ross in Black Panther
• Awards: Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series (2011)

Ian McKellen

• Born in Burnley, Lancashire, England, on May 25, 1939
• Notable roles: Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, Magneto in the X-Men films, Sherlock Holmes in Mr. Holmes
• Awards: Academy Award for Best Actor (1999), Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play (1968)

Richard Armitage

• Born in Leicester, England, on August 22, 1971
• Notable roles: Guy of Gisborne in Robin Hood, John Thornton in North & South, Francis Dolarhyde in Hannibal
• Awards: BAFTA Television Award for Best Actor (2009)

Benedict Cumberbatch

• Born in London, England, on July 19, 1976
• Notable roles: Sherlock Holmes in Sherlock, Dr. Stephen Strange in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Julian Assange in The Fifth Estate
• Awards: Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Miniseries or Movie (2014)

Evangeline Lilly

• Born in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, Canada, on August 3, 1979
• Notable roles: Kate Austen in Lost, Hope van Dyne in the Ant-Man films, Tauriel in The Hobbit trilogy
• Awards: Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series (2006)

Luke Evans

• Born in Pontypool, Torfaen, Wales, on April 15, 1979
• Notable roles: Gaston in Beauty and the Beast, Bard the Bowman in The Hobbit trilogy, Owen Shaw in the Fast & Furious films
• Awards: British Academy Television Award for Best Actor (2014)

Character Profiles

Bilbo Baggins

• A young and unassuming hobbit who is chosen by Gandalf to join Thorin's quest to reclaim the Lonely Mountain.
• Possesses a keen mind, adaptability, and a hidden courage that belies his small stature.
• Embarks on a journey of self-discovery, learning to overcome his fears and embrace his true potential.

Gandalf the Grey

• A wise and powerful wizard who serves as the guide and mentor to the company.
• Possesses a deep understanding of Middle-earth and its history, and uses his magic to aid the company.
• Embodies both wisdom and compassion, guiding the company through their darkest moments.

Thorin Oakenshield

• The exiled heir to the Lonely Mountain and the leader of the company.
• Driven by pride and determination, but also capable of compassion and loyalty.
• Bears the scars of war and loss, but remains resolute in his quest to reclaim his birthright.

Smaug

• A fearsome and ancient dragon who guards the Lonely Mountain.
• Possesses immense power and a malevolent cunning that belies his size.
• Embodies the destructive and relentless forces that oppose the company's quest.

Tauriel

• A fierce and skilled elf-warrior who joins the company on their journey.
• Torn between her duty to her people and her growing love for Kili.
• Represents the strength and resilience of the elves, as well as the forbidden love that blooms amid the chaos of war.

Bard the Bowman

• A skilled archer and leader of the men of Lake-town.
• Driven by a desire to protect his people and defend the innocent.
• Embodies the courage and resilience of the Free Peoples in the face of adversity.

The Impact of The Hobbit 2 Actors

The cast of The Hobbit 2 actors has had a profound impact on the film and the franchise as a whole:

• Critical Acclaim: The performances of the cast received widespread critical acclaim, with reviewers praising their depth, nuance, and authenticity.
• Box Office Success: The film grossed over $956 million worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing films of 2013.
• Cultural Impact: The film and its cast have become iconic symbols of the fantasy genre, inspiring fan art, cosplay, and countless discussions among fans.
• Reputational Boost: The actors involved in the film have seen their reputations soar, leading to subsequent roles in high-profile productions.

Why the Hobbit 2 Actors Matter

The Hobbit 2 actors are crucial to the success of the film for several reasons:

• They Bring the Characters to Life: The actors' performances give depth and personality to the beloved characters of Tolkien's novel.
• They Create Emotional Connections: The actors' skills evoke strong emotions in viewers, creating a deep connection to the characters and the story.
• They Enhance the Film's Authenticity: The actors' commitment to their roles adds realism and believability to the film's fantastical setting.
• They Inspire Audiences: The actors' portrayals of courage, resilience, and friendship inspire viewers to embrace their own potential.

The Benefits of Casting the Right Actors

Casting the right actors for The Hobbit 2 brought numerous benefits to the production:

• Increased Production Value: The performances of the actors elevated the film's overall quality, making it a more immersive and enjoyable experience for viewers.
• Enhanced Audience Engagement: The actors' ability to connect with viewers led to greater emotional investment in the story and characters.
• Positive Critical Reception: The strong performances of the cast contributed to the film's overall critical success.
• Long-Term Impact: The actors' involvement in the film has had a lasting impact on their careers and the franchise as a whole.

FAQs

Q: Who played Smaug in The Hobbit 2?

A: Benedict Cumberbatch

Q: What is the name of the dwarf who falls in love with Tauriel?

A: Kili

Q: Who is the leader of the company in The Hobbit 2?

A: Thorin Oakenshield

Q: How much did The Hobbit 2 gross at the box office?

A: $956 million worldwide

Q: Who directed The Hobbit 2?

A: Peter Jackson

Q: What is the name of the dragon in The Hobbit 2?

A: Smaug

Call to Action

Whether you're a fan of The Hobbit, a lover of fantasy, or simply appreciate great acting, the cast of The Hobbit 2 is a group of extraordinary performers who bring the beloved characters of Middle-earth to life. To fully appreciate the film's artistry, watch it today and witness the impact of their exceptional