To watch "The Hobbit" series in order, follow this sequence: 1. **The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey** (2012) 2. **The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug** (2013) 3. **The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies** (2014) This order reflects the chronological release of the films, which adapt J.R.R. Tolkien's novel "The Hobbit." Enjoy your viewing!

Ed Sheeran did not play a role in "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug." He made a cameo appearance in "The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies," where he performed the song "I See Fire" during the film's end credits. In "The Desolation of Smaug," the characters are portrayed by other actors, and Sheeran's involvement is only in the final installment of the trilogy.

"The Hobbit" trilogy, including "The Desolation of Smaug," was created to expand J.R.R. Tolkien's original novel into a three-part film series. Peter Jackson aimed to explore the rich lore, characters, and events surrounding the story, particularly the history of Middle-earth and the lead-up to "The Lord of the Rings." This allowed for deeper character development and the inclusion of additional material from Tolkien's appendices, enriching the cinematic experience while appealing to fans of the larger franchise.

The extended version of "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug" includes several additional scenes and extended sequences that provide more character development and story depth. Key additions feature a greater exploration of the backstory of characters like Thorin and Legolas, more interactions between characters, and an extended version of the battle at the Woodland Realm. The extended edition also includes additional footage of the dwarves' journey, enhancing the overall narrative and providing insight into the themes of friendship and bravery.