Peter Jackson updates status of upcoming Lord of the Rings films

Director Peter Jackson has provided updates on two upcoming Middle-earth film projects during his appearance at the Sitges Film Festival.

“The Hunt for Gollum,” directed by Andy Serkis, is nearing the end of its production in New Zealand, with approximately two weeks of filming remaining. The film, which features returning actors such as Ian McKellen and Elijah Wood, is scheduled for release on December 17, 2027.

Separately, Jackson confirmed that “The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past” is currently in the screenwriting stage. This project, involving writers such as Philippa Boyens and Stephen Colbert, is expected to adapt previously unfilmed chapters from the Tolkien legendarium, including material involving Tom Bombadil and the Old Forest. The story is set fourteen years after Frodo’s departure from Middle-earth.

These updates follow industry speculation regarding potential cancellations due to corporate restructuring at Warner Bros. following the Paramount-Skydance takeover. However, Jackson’s comments indicate that development for both projects is actively moving forward.