Warner Bros. is exploring new ideas for The Lord of the Rings franchise, focusing heavily on the character Gandalf. Screenwriter Philippa Boyens revealed that Gandalf will be featured in most concepts for the upcoming live-action films, including The Hunt for Gollum, in which Ian McKellen may reprise his iconic role. While Gandalf's return is confirmed for the first film, plans for a possible second film are still being discussed. Additionally, discussions around revitalizing the franchise highlight a desire from Warner Bros. to leverage the underused properties of Middle-earth, with some talk of bringing back other beloved characters like Aragorn. The animated film The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim is also set to debut in December 2024, further expanding the lore of Tolkien's world.

Will Ian McKellen reprise his role as Gandalf in upcoming films?

Yes, Ian McKellen has expressed openness to returning as Gandalf, depending on whether age allows it.

The Lord of the Rings franchise, based on J.R.R. Tolkien's timeless novels, consists of a series of films that have profoundly impacted cinematic storytelling. The original trilogy, directed by Peter Jackson, garnered widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards, including multiple Oscars. Following the success of these films, the franchise has continued to expand, now exploring various adaptations in the realm of cinema and animated productions.