Sir Ian McKellen Reveals Change In Gandalf’s Role In The Hunt for Gollum

Lord of the Rings and X-Men star Ian McKellen has hinted at a change in approach when it comes to how director Andy Serkis will adapt J.R.R Tolkein’s original novel The Lord of the Rings, into the upcoming The Hunt for Gollum film.

The actor, known and cherished in the fantasy fan community for his work as Gandalf the Grey, the wizard who bears one of the Three Rings and serves as a pivotal guide for Frodo Baggins, with original star Elijah Wood also set to feature in his quest to destroy the One Ring. 

Gandalf is a signature and crucial player in the entire story arc of Tolkien’s fantasy epic, charted throughout the three Lord of the Rings novels and The Hobbit prequel books. However, throughout the upcoming story of Aragon’s hunt for Gollum, a hobbit who becomes distorted and lost in his corrupted nature and obsession with the One Ring, Gandalf will move from an active participant on the hunt to a more passive overseer. 

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When talking to The Times, McKellen shared: “I’m not in the position to say… But the script is designed to appeal to people who like The Lord of the Rings. It’s an adventure story, Aragorn trying to find Gollum with Gandalf directing operations from the sidelines.”

The screen and stage legend also confirmed his return to the iconic role of the wizard: “Well, I said I cannot have anybody else play Gandalf.”

The Hunt for Gollum story was also made into a fan film released in 2009 by Chris Bouchard. Due for a winter 2027 release date, the next installment in the Lord of the Rings film franchise will focus on “Aragorn’s quest to capture Gollum between The Hobbit and Fellowship of the Ring, tracking him to keep the Ring’s location from Sauron. The film explores Aragorn’s early adventures as a ranger.”

Philippa Boyens, Phoebe Gittins and Arty Papageorgiou are all credited as writers.

The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum is set for release on December 17th, 2027.

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Ros Tibbs

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Ros is a film and lit graduate writing news and reviews at The People's Magazine. She also writes long-form film theory, film history, analytical or curated recommendations pieces on other platforms.

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