Ian McKellen Confirms He Will Play Gandalf Again in ‘The Hunt for Gollum’

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Confirmed: Sir Ian McKellen is returning as Gandalf in the upcoming film, The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum.

Ian McKellen announced the news while on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, and shared that filming is scheduled to start this July in New Zealand.

Gandalf Is Back

During an interview while discussing his recent work, McKellen was asked by Stephen Colbert if he would reprise his role in Andy Serkis’ new movie.

Colbert expressed his excitement, saying he was thrilled to learn the actor would be returning as Gandalf in The Hunt for Gollum.

McKellen responded and confirmed the production timeline.

He mentioned it would likely be in July, which is winter in New Zealand, but they’d probably be filming indoors most of the time. He then jokingly described getting into costume, listing off a Santa Claus beard, nose, eyebrows, mustache, pointy hat, and gloves.

This is the first time Sir Ian McKellen has played Gandalf in a movie since 2014’s The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies.

Production Set for July 2026

I’m really excited to hear that The Hunt for Gollum is finally happening! From what I understand, they’re starting to film in July, and Andy Serkis is not only directing it, but he’s also reprising his incredible role as Gollum. It’s awesome to see him so involved!

The film will hit theaters on December 17, 2027, and will be the first live-action Lord of the Rings movie released in more than ten years.

Philippa Boyens has shared that the new film is set between Bilbo’s birthday party and the journey through the Mines of Moria, and will tell the story from Gollum’s point of view. Peter Jackson, Boyens, and Fran Walsh are all producing and actively involved in the film’s creation.

Frodo Also Confirmed

During a fan event last summer, McKellen teased that Frodo would also appear in the film.

Although it’s not certain Elijah Wood will be back, the possibility has sparked rumors that other actors from the original cast might also reappear if their roles make sense in the new story.

IMDb lists both actors as returning.

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2026-02-06 04:01