Elijah Wood, well known for his portrayal of Frodo in the original trilogy, addressed Ian McKellen’s recent hints about the upcoming film, The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, at FAN EXPO New Orleans. The possibility of familiar faces returning, particularly in reference to the “Ian McKellen Hunt for Gollum,” drew attention from long-time fans as Wood shared his thoughts during a discussion panel.
When questioned about McKellen’s comments regarding a potential Frodo and Gandalf reunion in the forthcoming movie, Wood responded,
“I can neither confirm nor deny. Listen, a wizard is to be trusted. Aside from any of that, I’m not really allowed to confirm.”
— Elijah Wood, Actor.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the project despite the uncertainty, Wood added,
“I’m really excited about the film… It really is a creative ‘getting the band back together.’”
— Elijah Wood, Actor.
Creators and Cast Aim for Authentic Return to Middle-earth
Wood highlighted that the production is reuniting key creative talents from the original films, remarking,
“Philippa [Boyens] I think, is co-writing it and producing it… that core original group [is] getting back together.”
— Elijah Wood, Actor.
He observed that Andy Serkis, known for his performance as Gollum, is set to direct, stating this was
“unbelievably appropriate” because
“he directs a film about his character that he has really made his own.”
— Elijah Wood, Actor.
According to Wood, the team intends to explore more stories within the Tolkien universe, as he revealed,
“I know their intention is to make other films in this universe… very exciting.”
— Elijah Wood, Actor.
While Wood did not confirm whether he would reprise his role, his comments reflected excitement about returning to the world crafted by Tolkien, Philippa Boyens, Fran Walsh, Phoebe Gittins, and Arty Papageorgiou.
Ian McKellen and Andy Serkis Prepare for Production
During the For the Love of Fantasy fan event in London, Ian McKellen gave subtle clues, saying,
“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.
He disclosed that filming for The Hunt for Gollum will start in May 2026. Both McKellen and Wood attended the London event, continuing to spark speculation among fans about potential cast reunions.
The new film, set directly before the events of The Fellowship of the Ring, will follow Gandalf’s search for Gollum. Andy Serkis takes on the dual role of director and actor, reprising Gollum. The screenplay involves established creative contributors: Philippa Boyens, Fran Walsh, Phoebe Gittins, Arty Papageorgiou, and J.R.R. Tolkien’s legendary source material. The movie is slated to premiere on December 17, 2027.
Anticipation Builds Among Fans and Creators
With key figures such as Andy Serkis, Ian McKellen, Elijah Wood, and original creatives reuniting in the “Ian McKellen Hunt for Gollum,” expectations are high for a return to the magic of Middle-earth. As more details emerge and production draws near, fans eagerly anticipate fresh stories and the possible reunion of cherished characters in Tolkien’s enduring world.
