The Hidden Fifth Hobbit: Unveiling Frodo’s Lesser-Known Companion in ‘The Lord of the Rings’
In Peter Jackson’s film adaptation of ‘The Lord of the Rings’, Frodo is primarily accompanied by his loyal gardener, Sam, and his mischievous cousins, Merry and Pippin. These three hobbits embark on the journey from the Shire to Rivendell and ultimately join the Fellowship at the Council of Elrond. While Merry and Pippin’s introductions differ in both the film and J.R.R. Tolkien’s novel, there is a notable fifth member of their group who is largely overlooked in the movies: Fredegar “Fatty” Bolger.
Fredegar hailed from the Bridgefields area in the Eastfarthing of the Shire and was a distant relative of Frodo’s family. He was a close friend of Frodo and was among the guests at Bilbo’s eleventh birthday party, where he made a brief appearance in the extended edition of the film. In contrast, Fredegar plays a more significant role in the book. He knew about the One Ring and supported Frodo during the early stages of his quest, even if he did not accompany him to Rivendell or the Fellowship.
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In the novel, Sam joins Frodo after overhearing a conversation about the One Ring, while Merry and Pippin’s involvement is more intentional. About a year before Bilbo’s party, Merry witnesses Frodo using the Ring to become invisible, which he then tells to his trusted friends: Sam, Pippin, and Fredegar. They became known as the “conspirators,” with Sam acting as the “chief investigator” to uncover the truth about the Ring.
When Frodo pretends to move to Crickhollow, the conspirators assist him in his preparations. Fredegar, however, chooses to stay behind, fearing the dangers of the journey, particularly through the treacherous Old Forest. He takes on the role of maintaining the pretence that Frodo is still in the Shire, even dressing as him to mislead any inquisitive neighbours.
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Fredegar’s courage comes to light when the Nazgûl invade Crickhollow, as he manages to escape and raise the alarm, alerting the Shire to the impending danger. He also stands against Saruman’s forces during the Scouring of the Shire, leading a rebellion against the tyrannical wizard before being captured. Ultimately, he is rescued by Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin.
While Jackson’s films do not showcase Fredegar’s contributions, his friendship with the other hobbits remains significant. After the War of the Ring, Fredegar’s fate is less documented, but he likely maintained close ties with his co-conspirators. Though Frodo departs for Valinor shortly after their return, the enduring bond between them and the sacrifices of characters like Fredegar greatly contribute to the Fellowship’s success.
–Farheen Ali