Pop Culture References to the Inheritance Cycle

Christopher Paolini, Guinness World Records, 2012, pop culture
Christopher with his Guinness World Record

From the “lonely god” riddle in Inheritance to naming Palancar Valley after one of his favorite artists, Christopher has seeded homages to pop culture throughout the Inheritance Cycle. But what happens when the tables are turned?

If you’ve discovered additional references to the Inheritance Cycle, share them with us on Twitter or Facebook!

‘Durza’ on Jeopardy

The American gameshow referenced the Inheritance Cycle in a February 2013 episode, asking contestants which fantasy book series featured “Durza the wizard.” Christopher later clarified on social media that the Shade is actually a sorcerer.

Brad Pitt Reads Eragon

During a children’s charity appearance, American actor Brad Pitt (Fight Club, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button) read an excerpt from Eragon to an enthusiastic group of young readers.

New York Times

“Eragon” was the answer to two different crossword puzzle clues, first in May 2008 and later in July 2014.

Celebrity Crossword

The popular Facebook app included “Christopher Paolini novel about a boy who rides the dragon Saphira” as its Clue of the Day.

Avril Lavigne, “Keep Holding On”

The punk rock singer wrote and recorded the song for the Eragon movie. It saw radio success in the United States and abroad.

“The Time of the Dragon Riders”

Rock band Meridian Mind performed their original track for the international “Your Song for Eragon” contest. A music video was later released.

Guinness Book of World Records

Christopher was awarded as the “youngest author of a bestselling book series.” The accomplishment was first recorded in the 2012 edition.

Mike Macauley

Mike Macauley is the founder of Shurtugal.com, editor in chief of Lytherus.com, and author of The Inheritance Almanac. Mike can be found on Twitter at @mikemacauley.