Ian McKellen Eyes Gandalf Return with Dark Twist

In an interesting development for The Lord of the Rings fans, Ian McKellen has expressed interest in reprising his iconic role as Gandalf in the upcoming film "The Hunt for Gollum." McKellen specified that his return would hinge on his health, saying, "If I’m alive." Despite the lack of a script or a concrete offer, McKellen remains open to the idea. The film, slated for a 2026 release, aims to delve into the backstory of Gollum, a character portrayed by Andy Serkis. Peter Jackson mentioned that the project would explore parts of the character's journey that were not covered in the original trilogy. Viggo Mortensen, known for his role as Aragorn, also entertained the possibility of returning but noted the need for a justified storyline to accommodate his aged character. Overall, the film promises to expand the rich lore of Middle-earth.

When is "The Hunt for Gollum" expected to be released?

The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum is expected to be released in 2026, with early script work currently underway.

Ian McKellen last donned Gandalf’s hat and robe in 2014’s "The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies." The Lord of the Rings franchise, created by J.R.R. Tolkien, has a storied history of both literary and cinematic success. The upcoming film looks to continue this tradition by further exploring stories and characters beloved by fans around the world.