Elijah Wood Vows He’s the Only Frodo Baggins—For Now

Elijah Wood has firmly stated his intention to remain the sole actor to play Frodo Baggins, at least as long as he is alive and able. Though it has not been officially confirmed that he will appear in the upcoming film The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, Wood, known for his iconic role in The Lord of the Rings trilogy, voiced his strong desire to protect his association with the character.

Speaking to The Sunday Times on March 6, Wood expressed his determination:

“I certainly wouldn’t want anybody else to play Frodo either as long as I’m alive and able.”

This statement comes amid speculation that Leo Woodall might succeed Viggo Mortensen as Aragorn in the new movie. Wood’s co-star, Sir Ian McKellen, shared similar feelings about preserving his role as Gandalf, even agreeing to reprise it for The Hunt for Gollum to ensure no one else takes the part.

Elijah Wood’s Continued Connection to Middle-earth

Elijah Wood discussed his possible return to Middle-earth during an interview, acknowledging that while an official announcement about his involvement hasn’t been made, there are enticing signs pointing to his participation. He said,

“It hasn’t been officially announced, but at a convention last August, Ian sort of let the cat out of the bag.”

Wood added,

“So there is a good chance. I’m not able to officially say anything until it’s announced but I will say I’m thrilled with the prospect of another film.”

The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum is planned as a prequel focusing on events leading up to the first film, The Fellowship of the Ring. According to screenwriter Philippa Boyens, the story takes place after Bilbo’s birthday party but before the Mines of Moria sequence. Boyens described it as,

“It’s quite an intense story, which falls after the birthday party of Bilbo and before the Mines Of Moria,”

and added,

“It’s a specific chunk of incredible untold story, told through the perspective of this incredible creature.”

Creative Team and Anticipation for the New Film

With Peter Jackson returning as a producer and Andy Serkis—who originally portrayed Gollum—set to direct, the project is generating excitement. Elijah Wood expressed hope that the involvement of key figures and a strong story would satisfy long-standing fans of Middle-earth. He acknowledged the apprehension fans often feel with new adaptations, noting,

“It’s always a little nerve-racking when people talk about new movies for a world like Middle-earth. Everyone gets a little protective and hopes it retains its level of integrity, but this story is fun, thrilling,”

and continued,

“There is a genuine feeling of getting the band back together.”

Wood also shared his personal enthusiasm for seeing the new portrayal of Gandalf on screen, saying,

“And I can also recognize what fun that is going to be—when you are in the cinema and you see the hat turn around and it’s Gandalf,”

finishing with,

“Because I’m also a fan, and excited to see how it all comes together.”

A Selection of Upcoming Films to Watch in 2026

As fans await the December 2027 release of The Hunt for Gollum, numerous other films are set to premiere throughout 2026, offering a rich range of genres and stories.

1. People We Meet on Vacation – January 9, 2026
Based on Emily Henry’s bestselling romance novel, this film stars Tom Blyth and Emily Bader. It follows a heartfelt story of two longtime friends reconnecting during a memorable summer getaway. Streaming exclusively on Netflix.

2. Primate – January 9, 2026
A thriller about a group of friends’ tropical vacation turning into a terrifying survival ordeal, emphasizing primal fear and alliances. This film will be available in theaters.

3. The Rip – January 16, 2026
Reuniting Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, this action thriller centers on Miami cops who discover millions in cash in a dilapidated stash house, triggering intense trust conflicts. The cast also includes Teyana Taylor and Steven Yeun. Available on Netflix.

4. 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple – January 16, 2026
A spin-off sequel starring Ralph Fiennes that dives deeper into the terrifying reality of post-apocalyptic survivors and their grim struggles. Scheduled for theaters.

5. Mercy – January 23, 2026
Set in the near future, this thriller stars Chris Pratt as a detective on trial for his wife’s murder, fighting for his life within 90 minutes against an advanced A.I. judge played by Rebecca Ferguson. In theaters.

6. The Wrecking Crew – January 28, 2026
An action-comedy starring Jason Momoa and Dave Bautista as estranged half-brothers compelled to reunite after their father’s mysterious passing. Streaming on Prime Video.

7. The Moment – January 30, 2026
Charli XCX leads this mockumentary portraying a rising pop star handling the pressures of fame and preparing for a major arena tour, featuring Kylie Jenner, Alexander Skarsgard, and others. Available in select theaters.

8. Send Help – January 30, 2026
Dark comedy with Rachel McAdams and Dylan O’Brien as coworkers stranded on a deserted island after a plane crash, forced to confront their pasts to survive. In theaters.

9. Crime 101 – February 13, 2026
An intense thriller starring Chris Hemsworth as a jewel thief partnering with an insurance broker for one final heist. The ensemble cast includes Halle Berry, Mark Ruffalo, Monica Barbaro, and Barry Keoghan. In theaters.

10. GOAT – February 13, 2026
An animated comedy about a small goat named Will who takes on the dangerous full-contact sport of roarball in an all-animal world. Featuring voices of Stephen Curry, Gabrielle Union, and Caleb McLaughlin. Theatrical release.

11. Wuthering Heights – February 14, 2026
Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi star in this new adaptation of Emily Brontë’s classic novel, directed by Emerald Fennell. In theaters.

12. How To Make a Killing – February 20, 2026
Glen Powell portrays Becket Redfellow, a blue-collar man seeking to reclaim his inheritance from a wealthy family at any cost. The film will be in theaters.

13. Scream 7 – February 27, 2026
Neve Campbell returns as Sidney Prescott to fend off a new Ghostface killer threatening her family. Co-stars include Courteney Cox, Isabel May, and others. In theaters.

14. The Bride! – March 6, 2026
Maggie Gyllenhaal’s reimagining of the 1935 classic, starring Christian Bale as Frankenstein seeking a companion, played by Jessie Buckley. Also featuring Annette Bening, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Penelope Cruz. In theaters.

15. Hoppers – March 6, 2026
Pixar’s new animated feature introduces technology that allows human consciousness to inhabit robotic animals, centered on animal lover Mabel. Theatrical release.

16. Project Hail Mary – March 20, 2026
Ryan Gosling stars in this sci-fi adventure based on Andy Weir’s novel, about a science teacher waking up on a spaceship with a mission to save the dying sun. In theaters.

17. Billie Eilish: Hit Me Hard and Soft – The Tour (Live in 3D) – March 20, 2026
A concert film capturing Billie Eilish’s sold-out tour in immersive 3D, co-directed by James Cameron. In theaters.

18. Ready or Not 2: Here I Come – March 27, 2026
The horror-comedy sequel featuring Samara Weaving and Elijah Wood returns with Grace facing new terrifying challenges. In theaters.

19. They Will Kill You – March 27, 2026
Zazie Beetz stars in a thriller about a woman who uncovers sinister disappearances while working as housekeeping in a mysterious NYC high-rise. In theaters.

20. The Drama – April 3, 2026
Zendaya and Robert Pattinson depict a couple navigating an unexpected crisis during wedding week. Theater release.

21. You, Me & Tuscany – April 10, 2026
A romantic comedy starring Halle Bailey and Regé-Jean Page set among Italy’s scenic vineyards. In theaters.

22. Lee Cronin’s The Mummy – April 17, 2026
A horror take on the classic franchise involving a girl’s disappearance and a terrifying reunion. In theaters.

23. Michael – April 24, 2026
A biopic with Jaafar Jackson portraying Michael Jackson, the King of Pop. Theater release.

24. The Devil Wears Prada 2 – May 1, 2026
Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, and others revive their roles in this eagerly awaited fashion industry sequel. In theaters.

25. Mortal Kombat II – May 8, 2026
Fans of the video game franchise will see favorite fighters battle Shao Kahn’s dark rule. Stars Karl Urban and others. Theater release.

26. The Mandalorian and Grogu – May 22, 2026
This galactic adventure brings bounty hunter Din Djarin and Grogu to the big screen, with appearances by Sigourney Weaver. In theaters.

27. Masters of the Universe – June 5, 2026
The ’80s franchise returns with Prince Adam/He-Man and his allies battling Skeletor. Features a star-studded cast including Camila Mendes and Idris Elba. Theater release.

28. Disclosure Day – June 12, 2026
Steven Spielberg directs this sci-fi thriller starring Emily Blunt and Colin Firth. In theaters.

29. Toy Story 5 – June 19, 2026
Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Jessie, and the gang face new challenges involving a smart gadget. Theatrical release.

30. Supergirl – June 26, 2026
Milly Alcock stars as Kara Zor-El joining forces with a reluctant partner to seek justice in an interstellar conflict. In theaters.

The Enduring Legacy of Elijah Wood’s Frodo Baggins

Elijah Wood’s vow to remain the definitive Frodo Baggins carries significant weight for fans and the franchise alike. His connection to the role symbolizes the emotional core of the original trilogy, creating strong fan loyalty and setting a high standard for future portrayals. The involvement of industry veterans like Peter Jackson and Andy Serkis also suggests careful stewardship over Middle-earth’s mythology. As The Hunt for Gollum moves closer to its 2027 release, anticipation remains high to see how the legendary stories will expand and whether Wood’s presence will indeed preserve the authenticity beloved by audiences.