Elijah Wood has addressed rising speculation about his involvement in The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, responding to comments by Ian McKellen during a recent panel appearance. The possibility of Wood’s return as Frodo has become a focus for fans, especially as original creatives reunite for this highly anticipated project.
Elijah Wood Responds at FAN EXPO New Orleans
During a panel at FAN EXPO New Orleans, Elijah Wood spoke about McKellen’s previous remarks regarding a potential reunion of Frodo and Gandalf in the upcoming Hunt for Gollum film. When questioned about McKellen’s statement, Wood offered a carefully worded answer:
I can neither confirm nor deny. Listen, a wizard is to be trusted. Aside from any of that, I’m not really allowed to confirm.
– Elijah Wood, Actor
He expressed genuine enthusiasm for the film, saying,
I’m really excited about the film… It really is a creative ‘getting the band back together.’
– Elijah Wood, Actor
Wood drew attention to the reunion of key figures behind the scenes, elaborating,
Philippa [Boyens] I think, is co-writing it and producing it… that core original group [is] getting back together
– Elijah Wood, Actor.
Key Creators and Returning Cast
The focus on returning talent is a source of excitement for Wood and fans. He noted the significance of Andy Serkis both directing and reprising his role as Gollum, stating,
he directs a film about his character that he has really made his own.
– Elijah Wood, Actor.
Indicating that the franchise may expand, Wood mentioned,
I know their intention is to make other films in this universe… very exciting.
– Elijah Wood, Actor. Although Wood did not confirm his return as Frodo, he made clear his support for the film and its strong connection to the original trilogy.
McKellen and Wood at London Fan Event
At the For the Love of Fantasy event in London, Ian McKellen shared limited details about the new film, revealing,
There’s a character in the movie called Frodo and another character called Gandalf, and apart from that, my lips are sealed.
– Ian McKellen, Actor. McKellen also confirmed that production is scheduled to begin in May 2026, fueling further speculation about which original cast members will participate. Both McKellen and Wood were present at the event, adding to the intrigue surrounding their possible involvement.
Details on The Hunt for Gollum
The Hunt for Gollum will be directed by Andy Serkis, who returns as Gollum. The plot is set before The Fellowship of the Ring, featuring Gandalf’s pursuit of Gollum. The screenplay is a collaboration between Philippa Boyens, Fran Walsh, Phoebe Gittins, Arty Papageorgiou, and J.R.R. Tolkien, with the film’s release planned for December 17, 2027.
With major creative forces from the original trilogy involved, and the possibility of beloved characters like Frodo and Gandalf returning, anticipation for Elijah Wood Hunt for Gollum continues to build. As new information surfaces closer to production, fans are eager to learn which key characters and actors will officially be part of this next chapter in Middle-earth’s cinematic legacy.
