At a recent fan event, Ian McKellen, a cherished cast member from the original film, confirmed that both Gandalf and Frodo will appear in the forthcoming movie The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, a key moment for fans of the Ian McKellen Lord of the Rings legacy. The prequel, directed by Andy Serkis, is scheduled to start filming in May 2026, building anticipation around its return to Middle-earth and hinting at a fresh chapter in the saga.
During his appearance, McKellen addressed widespread speculation over returning characters, providing the first official word that both Gandalf and Frodo would be in the cast. The announcement clarifies months of rumors and excites those hopeful for more stories featuring beloved figures from the iconic fantasy world, originally depicted in Peter Jackson’s acclaimed trilogy.
“It’s going to start filming in May. It’s going to be directed by Gollum, and it’s all about Gollum.
But I’ll tell you two secrets about the casting. There’s a character in the movie called Frodo and another character called Gandalf, and apart from that, my lips are sealed.”
– Ian McKellen, Actor
Main Characters Set for Return
While the direct return of Elijah Wood as Frodo Baggins is not officially confirmed, past statements from the star have raised hopes among fans. Last year, Wood expressed his own willingness to step back into Middle-earth, sharing his fondness for the world and the people involved in its creation. This has led many to believe that both actors—and, by extension, their iconic roles—will again grace the screen in the highly anticipated prequel.
It would be pretty incredible. I have to say, any return to New Zealand to work with those individuals within the context of that world would be…jumping back into a world that’s so beloved and means so much to me. So yeah, it would be awesome.
– Elijah Wood, Actor
The upcoming film is structured as a prequel to The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, focusing on Gandalf’s effort to have Aragorn track down Gollum and prevent him from exposing the location of the One Ring to Sauron. This period is a critical point of tension in Tolkien’s universe, providing a deeper look into the events that set the main story in motion.
Theatrical Release Planned for December 2027
The Hunt for Gollum is slated for release on December 17, 2027, under Warner Bros. Pictures and New Line Cinema. The movie aims to recapture the massive box office and critical success achieved by the original Lord of the Rings trilogy, which not only garnered multiple Academy Awards but also established itself as a pop culture phenomenon.
With its setting during the first act of the Fellowship, audiences can expect to revisit the atmosphere and stakes of the early 2000s films, now seen from the vantage points of Gandalf, Gollum, and other returning favorites. The involvement of returning creative talents bolsters confidence that the new chapter will honor the intricate storytelling of the originals.
Production Team and Creative Direction
The narrative for The Hunt for Gollum is being developed by screenwriters Fran Walsh, Philippa Boyens, Phoebe Gittins, and Arty Papageorgiou, ensuring continuity in writing style and lore accuracy. Andy Serkis, famed for his performance capture work as Gollum, is both directing and reprising his role as the titular character. Producer Peter Jackson, deeply associated with the original films’ global impact, also lends his expertise to the production.
It is an honour and a privilege to travel back to Middle-earth with our good friend and collaborator, Andy Serkis, who has unfinished business with that Stinker – Gollum!
– Peter Jackson, Producer
The creative team’s collective experience in bringing Tolkien’s Middle-earth to life promises a film steeped in the spirit and visual narrative of its predecessors, with Serkis’s unique perspective as both a performer and director offering a compelling new take on Gollum’s story.
Cast Overview
Though official casting announcements are pending, the main characters expected to appear include:
1. Elijah Wood as Frodo Baggins
2. Andy Serkis as Gollum
3. Ian McKellen as Gandalf
This core trio, if fully reunited, would bridge generations of viewers, reinforcing the lasting appeal of Tolkien’s universe and its rich characters.
What’s Ahead for The Hunt for Gollum
The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum is positioned to be both a nostalgic journey and a fresh expansion of a beloved fantasy world. With legacy talents like Ian McKellen and Andy Serkis leading the project, and Peter Jackson providing his creative input, the film looks to entice both longstanding fans and new audiences. The confirmed release date, scriptwriting team, and casting hints have significantly raised anticipation, as audiences await further developments and official announcements in the months to come.
Gandalf (Sir Ian Mckellen) with a great announcement for the new Lord of the Rings movie😍❤️ pic.twitter.com/pXh7P8QuTb
— Gollumgram (@Gollumgram) January 5, 2026
