New reports suggest two rising actors could join the cast of an upcoming Middle-earth project. Industry chatter indicates discussions are underway for the lead roles in the next film set in J.R.R. Tolkien’s universe. The development comes as preparations continue for The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum.
Leo Woodall and Anya Taylor-Joy rumored for new Lord of the Rings movie
According to scooper DanielRPK, Leo Woodall and Anya Taylor-Joy are reportedly being considered for the male and female lead roles, respectively, in the upcoming Middle-earth LOTR film. The information circulated on X (formerly Twitter), where ScreenTime posted that the two actors were “reportedly both in talks for the male and female lead roles for ‘THE LORD OF THE RINGS: THE HUNT FOR GOLLUM’.”
Casting rumors about the project have emerged as the production team prepares the Andy Serkis-directed film. Scooper DanielRPK reported that he saw a casting grid listing Taylor-Joy in talks for a role in the movie (via World of Reel). Reports have not revealed any details about the character, although speculation suggests she could portray one of the elves.
Separate reports also state that producers are considering Leo Woodall to play a younger version of Aragorn in the film. The reported casting would replace Viggo Mortensen, who portrayed Aragorn in the earlier trilogy. Producers reportedly approached Mortensen about returning, but he declined, which led them to search for a younger actor.
The Hunt for Gollum takes place during the events of The Fellowship of the Ring, shortly before Frodo Baggins leaves the Shire for Rivendell. The story begins when Gandalf sends Aragorn on a mission to find Gollum before the forces of Mordor capture him and obtain information about the One Ring. Andy Serkis directs the film and will also appear alongside Elijah Wood and Ian McKellen.
Producers plan to begin filming in May in New Zealand. The project marks the first Middle-earth live-action film since The Hobbit trilogy ended. The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum is scheduled to release on December 17, 2027.
Originally reported by Anubhav Chaudhry on SuperHeroHype.
