Warner Bros. Expands ‘Lord of the Rings’ Universe with New Films
Warner Bros. Is continuing to expand its “Lord of the Rings” franchise with two new film projects. The studio announced plans for both The Hunt for Gollum and The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past on Tolkien Reading Day, March 25, 2026.
‘The Hunt for Gollum’ Nears Production
The Hunt for Gollum, initially a working title, is currently in pre-production and slated for a 2027 release. This film will focus on Gollum’s journey after losing the One Ring to Bilbo Baggins, as depicted in J.R.R. Tolkien’s writings [Tolkien Gateway]. Director Peter Jackson provided an update on the project, stating Andy Serkis is “doing a terrific job” and that the film is “looking amazing” [Variety].
‘Shadow of the Past’ to Explore Early ‘Lord of the Rings’ Lore
Following The Hunt for Gollum, Warner Bros. Will release The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past. This new installment will be set 14 years after the events of The Return of the King and Frodo’s departure to the West [CBR]. The film will reunite Sam, Merry, and Pippin as they retrace the steps of their original adventure.
A parallel storyline will follow Sam’s daughter, Elanor, as she uncovers a secret concerning the early days of the War of the Ring, a secret that nearly led to the failure of the quest to destroy the One Ring [CBR].
Stephen Colbert and Peter McGee Pen New Story
The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past is being developed by Stephen Colbert and his son, screenwriter Peter McGee. Colbert shared that the idea originated from six chapters in The Fellowship of the Ring that were not included in Peter Jackson’s original film adaptation, specifically those involving the encounter with Tom Bombadil [EW]. Colbert initially conceived the idea two years prior to the announcement and approached Jackson after building up the “courage” to share it [EW]. The project gained momentum after Colbert announced his departure from The Late Show With Stephen Colbert last year [EW].
The film will be produced by WingNut Films in association with Spartina Industries and written by Phillipa Boyens, Peter McGee, and Stephen Colbert [CBR].
No casting details for Shadow of the Past have been confirmed, but Warner Bros. May consider bringing back Sean Astin, Dominic Monaghan, and Billy Boyd to reprise their roles as Sam, Merry, and Pippin [CBR].
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