John Rhys-Davies, the operatically voiced Welsh character actor, truly made a lasting impression on audiences and creators alike with his dynamic performances in two of the most iconic film franchises of the 20th century. That’s right—John Rhys-Davies brought unforgettable energy to Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) and later stole scenes as the mighty Gimli in Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy (2001–03). But even when he wasn’t conquering Middle-earth or dodging boulders, John Rhys-Davies remained a familiar face across global television and cinema. He effortlessly slipped into roles ranging from stern military figures to wise professors, often portraying characters from diverse cultural backgrounds with remarkable authenticity.
And let’s not forget his voice—deep, commanding, and instantly recognizable—John Rhys-Davies became a go-to talent for animated projects and video games, lending his vocal prowess to a wide array of digital and fantastical realms. Thanks to this incredible range, John Rhys-Davies earned widespread respect as one of Britain’s most versatile exports in entertainment. Yet, despite his massive contributions, there was something almost magical about how John Rhys-Davies could vanish into his roles so completely that he lived much of his life out of the spotlight, quietly enjoying a peaceful, low-key existence away from fame’s glare.
When it comes to John Rhys-Davies’s filmography, there’s quite a range in terms of critical reception. One standout moment in his career definitely has to be Victor/Victoria from 1982, which remains John Rhys-Davies’s highest rated movie to date. The film was not only a commercial success but also earned widespread acclaim, showcasing John Rhys-Davies in a memorable role that fans still talk about. On the other end of the spectrum, John Rhys-Davies appeared in In the Name of the King: A Dungeon Siege Tale, released in 2007, which unfortunately turned out to be his lowest rated film. While it had its moments and a dedicated fanbase, the overall response wasn’t as strong. So, when you look at the full picture, John Rhys-Davies has had both shining highs and some less successful ventures—proving even legendary actors like John Rhys-Davies have their ups and downs on screen.