Lord of the Rings Star Ian McKellen Explains Why Hunt For Gollum Could Recast Gandalf

Lord of the Rings Star Ian McKellen Explains Why Hunt For Gollum Could Recast Gandalf

As a gamer who has spent countless hours immersed in the magical world of Middle Earth, I can’t help but feel a twinge of nostalgia at the prospect of Ian McKellen potentially reprising his iconic role as Gandalf in the upcoming Lord of the Rings series, The Hunt for Gollum.


Lord of the Rings star Ian McKellen has been getting a lot of hype over his possible (probable?) return as Gandalf in the next Lord of the Rings movies, which will begin with The Hunt for Gollum. The veteran actor has already revealed that producers (like Peter Jackson, Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens) have approached him about returning – but there has been a major caveat. McKellen has made it clear that development on The Hunt of Gollum is still in the very early stages, and that he’s just hoping to be alive and active enough to do the film(s).

At 85 years old, McKellen views time as an extremely valuable resource that can’t be taken for granted. However, he acknowledges that it’s not something that can be depended upon. In a recent interview, McKellen stated that his return as Gandalf in “Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum” hinges on his continued existence, saying, “If I’m still alive.” Remarkably, he even hints that it wouldn’t be an unforgivable act if the production were to consider recasting Gandalf.

Here’s what I’ve learned: Someone contacted me and shared that these movies are planned, focusing primarily on Gollum. The person who played Gollum, Andy Serkis, will be the director. A script for these films is expected to arrive in the upcoming year, at which point I can decide if I want to participate again.” [laughs]

Sir Ian McKellen made it clear that he remains deeply dedicated to the world of The Lord of the Rings, expressing his enthusiasm by stating, “I’d be thrilled: I’d absolutely adore returning to New Zealand first and foremost. Moreover, I can’t imagine anyone else taking on the role of Gandalf.

Lord of the Rings Star Ian McKellen Explains Why Hunt For Gollum Could Recast Gandalf

When the co-hosts of This Morning (UK) mentioned that only Ian McKellen could portray Gandalf, he swiftly countered by reminding them that not every long-bearded wizard is irreplaceable, hinting at the existence of more than one Dumbledore.

In essence, Ian McKellen was alluding to the Harry Potter series of movies. Initially, Richard Harris played Albus Dumbledore in the first two movies, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. However, after the second film, Harris experienced a significant health deterioration and tragically passed away due to Hodgkin’s lymphoma at age 72. Subsequently, Michael Gambon took over as Dumbledore in the remaining six movies.

As a devoted fan, I must clarify a common misconception: Sir Ian McKellen, contrary to some claims on This Morning, is very much alive and well. Interestingly, he appears to acknowledge that the iconic character of Gandalf might live on beyond him in future stories.

Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum is in development.

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2024-09-11 01:09