Some familiar faces from Peter Jackson’s blockbuster Lord of the Rings films may reprise their roles in an upcoming project set in J.R.R. Tolkien’s fictional world of Middle-earth. Warner Bros. recently announced plans to produce additional live-action movies based on Tolkien’s works. Recent comments from Orlando Bloom and Ian McKellen suggest both actors are open to returning as their beloved characters Legolas and Gandalf.
Orlando Bloom first took on the role of the skilled elf Legolas in 2001’s The Fellowship of the Ring. He went on to play Legolas in the subsequent Lord of the Rings films and also The Hobbit trilogy. When asked by Variety about the possibility of returning, Bloom expressed enthusiasm. “Working on those films was amazing. If [director] Peter Jackson wants me to jump, I’ll ask how high.” Bloom’s successful career was boosted by his debut in the Tolkien adaptations.
Ian McKellen has long been praised for his iconic portrayal of the powerful wizard Gandalf. McKellen recently stated that he has been informed Gandalf will feature in the new films. While acknowledging no formal plans exist yet, McKellen said “They hope I’ll play [Gandalf] again, but we don’t know when the script will be finished.”
The first new film will be titled The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum. Set for release in 2026, it will be directed by Andy Serkis, famous for his groundbreaking motion-capture work as Gollum. Serkis will also reprise that role. Peter Jackson will produce along with long-time collaborators Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens.
Though plot details are scarce, Bloom and McKellen both say they don’t yet know specifics about potential involvement. However, fans remain excited at the prospect of seeing beloved characters reunited on screen. As Warner Bros. moves ahead with expanding Tolkien’s cinematic world, comments from key figures suggest these new films may appeal to both longtime fans and a new audience.
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