Hobbits Still Carrying That Ring

It's been quite a while since filming wrapped on The Lord of the Rings trilogy down in New Zealand. Since that time the cast had a chance to celebrate together at the Oscars in 2004 before the Fellowship parted ways for other acting opportunities. Unfortunately, the two main Hobbits, Frodo and Sam, never realized that the movie was actually over. After spending so much time together carrying The Precious to Mount Doom, they simply continued their journey, carrying that damn ring around everywhere they go.

It must be tough. One minute, you're on top of the world, winning an unprecedented 57 Oscars and sweeping every category at the awards. The next, nobody even remembers your real name. We should have seen this one coming though. After the Goonies in 1985, Sean Astin wouldn't leave Corey Feldman's side until Corey Haim beat him out for the lead in The Lost Boys. Similarly, Elijah Wood stalked Leelee Sobieski for 3 years after Deep Impact, refusing to admit she was only his wife in the movie. I guess this was a match made in Middle Earth.

Fortunately, their journey included a weekend of booze and debauchery in New Orleans for Mardi Gras this year. Before carrying the Ring to Bourbon Street and getting their hairy feet covered in the sludge of the French Quarter (yes, they still refuse to wear shoes), they paid a visit to Children's Hospital. While singing songs of Middle Earth to cheer up the kids, Ali was able to steal a quick moment with our Hobbit friends. The ring (not pictured) is in Frodo's front left jacket pocket.

By the way, Ian McKellen was taking the picture. Gandolf never misses a party, and he has mad photography skills!