Names/Eli/Elijah Wood
EntertainmentAmerican1981 – present

Elijah Wood

Frodo Baggins in 'The Lord of the Rings,' accomplished actor and producer

Biography

Elijah Jordan Wood (born January 28, 1981) is an American actor and film producer who achieved international stardom through his portrayal of Frodo Baggins in Peter Jackson's 'The Lord of the Rings' film trilogy (2001-2003). Born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Wood began his acting career as a child, appearing in various television shows and films throughout the 1990s. His casting as the hobbit protagonist in the epic fantasy adaptation became a defining role, earning him critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase that spans generations. Beyond 'Lord of the Rings,' Wood has demonstrated remarkable versatility, appearing in independent films, major studio productions, voice work, and television series. He produced and starred in the thriller 'Maniac' (2012) and has been instrumental in bringing the horror documentary series 'Wilfred' to audiences. An advocate for film preservation and independent cinema, Wood co-founded the production company Spectral Vision. His personal interests include directing music videos and championing emerging filmmakers. Wood's legacy extends beyond his acting career; he represents a generation of child actors who successfully transitioned into adulthood while maintaining creative integrity and artistic credibility in an often-challenging industry.

The Name Eli

Elijah, used frequently as Eli's longer form, has become prominently associated with beloved film characters and successful entertainers, enhancing the name's cultural prestige.

Quick Facts
Category

Entertainment

Nationality

American

Born

1981

Thinking about the name

Eli

Hebrew origin

A Hebrew name meaning 'ascended' or 'my God is Yahweh,' Eli is both biblical—the high priest in 1 Samuel—and strikingly modern in contemporary usage. The name's brevity and strong, clean sound have made it one of the most popular boys' names of recent decades, balancing ancient spiritual weight with contemporary accessibility. It feels both timeless and current, sophisticated yet approachable.