Two new films set in the beloved Middle-earth universe are in the pipeline, set to hit theaters in 2026. Warner Bros. Discovery’s CEO, David Zaslav, revealed the exciting news during a recent conference call, indicating that the projects are currently in the early stages of development.
The first installment, tentatively titled “Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum,” promises to delve into unexplored storylines within the rich tapestry of J.R.R. Tolkien’s creation. Renowned actor Andy Serkis, known for his portrayal of Gollum in the original trilogy, will not only direct but also reprise his iconic role in the new movies.
Behind the scenes, Peter Jackson, the visionary director behind the original films, will take on the role of producer, alongside screenwriters Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens. Joining them in crafting this new adventure are Phoebe Gittins and Arty Papageorgiou.
In a joint statement, Jackson, Walsh, and Boyens expressed their enthusiasm for returning to Middle-earth, stating, “It is an honor and a privilege to travel back to Middle-earth with our good friend and collaborator, Andy Serkis… As life-long fans of Professor Tolkien’s vast mythology, we are proud to be working on another epic adventure!”
The original “Lord of the Rings” trilogy captivated audiences worldwide, grossing nearly $3 billion and garnering 17 Academy Awards.