What is the name of the character played by Jeff Goldblum in Thor: Ragnarok?

The character played by Jeff Goldblum in Thor: Ragnarok is the Grandmaster.

In the film, the Grandmaster is the flamboyant ruler of Sakaar, a chaotic planet where he organizes gladiatorial contests known as the Contest of Champions. When Thor arrives on Sakaar, the Grandmaster forces him to fight the Hulk, his undefeated champion. Goldblum’s improvisational, eccentric performance gives the character a playful surface while preserving his role as a powerful and controlling ruler.

The MCU version differs noticeably from the comics. Marvel Comics’ Grandmaster is one of the immortal Elders of the Universe and is traditionally depicted with blue skin. Thor: Ragnarok leaves Goldblum’s face visible, using a silvery-blue chin stripe instead. Director Taika Waititi said the choice helped keep Goldblum’s personality central to the performance.

The Grandmaster is also related to another MCU character: Taneleer Tivan, better known as the Collector. The two are brothers in the films. Goldblum first appears as the Grandmaster in a cameo during the credits of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, before becoming a major supporting character in Thor: Ragnarok. He later voiced alternate versions in What If...?.