The mad Smeagol

The malevolent ring had a profound impact on Gollum, both physically and mentally. It prolonged his life far beyond its natural limits, haunted by the murder of Deagol. As a defense mechanism and a justification for his actions, Gollum often referred to the ring as his "birthday gift" and something "precious."

Gollum lived longer than any other Hobbit, spending over four hundred years on a small island surrounded by an underground lake. He survived on raw fish he caught from his small boat, occasionally hunting Goblins from nearby tunnels.

The corrupting influence of the malevolent ring, coupled with centuries of isolation in the Misty Mountains, took a toll on Gollum's physical and mental well-being. He became grotesque and hideous in appearance. By the time he encountered the Hobbit Bilbo Baggins, Gollum was almost entirely consumed by madness.