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Ian McKellen is known for his remarkable work as an actor and one of his most celebrated performances also includes his portrayal of Gandalf inThe Lord of the Ringsfranchise. And he has once again been approached to reprise his role in the franchise’s upcoming film,The Hunt for Gollum.
However, considering his experience working in the franchise and the treatment of his character inThe Hobbittrilogy, the reprisal doesn’t appear in the best interest of his Gandalf legacy. Fans also weigh in their opinion, with many believing that he should decline the offer.
The NewLord of the RingsMovie Seeks Ian McKellen’s Return as Gandalf
Earlier this year, Warner Bros. revealed their plans for the future ofThe Lord of the Ringsfranchise, confirming that the next two films would focus on Gollum, played byAndy Serkis.
The actor will be reprising his role along with taking on the directorial duties for both films. Adding to the intrigue, it is now suggested that along with Serkis,Ian McKellencould also reprise his role as Gandalf in the upcoming films.
As he recovers from a recent stage fall in London’s West End production ofPlayer Kings, the actor recently told The Big Issue that Gandalf is meant to be involved in upcoming films, and the studio hopes for him to reprise the role.
He said, as perDeadline,
Enthusiasm for The Lord of the Rings shows no sign of abating — I can’t tell you any more than that. I’ve just been told there are going to be more films and Gandalf will be involved and they hope that I’ll be playing him.
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However, the 85-year-old actor expressed uncertainty about the timing and script details for the new films. While McKellen has not confirmed if he will return to the role, fans have voiced concerns that he should decline the offer.
Fans Conflicted on Ian McKellen’s Potential Return as Gandalf
While many fans have warmly received the possibility of Ian McKellen returning to his iconic role, there is significant concern about this potential decision.
Better he should reject this
i don’t think Ian McKellen was overly happy on the set of The Hobbit – over use of CGI ?
I’m sure he’ll say yes, but you can’t really blame him if he doesn’t.
Nahh , we don’t need him anymore
Can’t imagine anyone else as Gandalf! But do we really need another LOTR spinoff? 😅
I don’t understand why he would be interested in reprising his role. Sir Ian McKellen didn’t have a great time working on The Hobbit, acting against green-screen which caused him to break down in tears. Plus, his performance in The Hobbit felt like he was on autopilot.
Don’t know how I feel about that tbh
“Better he should reject this,”one X (Twitter) user said responding to the news. Many others also echoed these sentiments, noting McKellen’s difficult experience while working onThe Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey,particularly due to the heavy use of CGI and green screens.
“I don’t think Ian McKellen was overly happy on the set of The Hobbit – over-use of CGI ?”another X (Twitter) suggested. During production, Peter Jackson shifted to greenscreens for scenes with McKellen’s Gandalf, as opposed to practical effects to portray the height difference.
However, the process left McKellen isolated from his co-stars, who were filming on fully-decorated sets. He has openly discussed how the processleft him feeling miserable and brought him to tears.
Additionally, inThe Hobbitfilms, Gandalf’s character is considered mistreated due to an expanded, overly powerful portrayal that dilutes his original traits of wisdom and subtlety. This approach contrasts with the nuanced depiction inThe Lord of the Rings, failing to enhance his legacy or inspire hope as effectively as the original books.
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Despite this, he has previously expressed a desire to return to the role if possible. As of now, McKellen has not confirmed his decision but is expected to reprise his role in the upcoming filmThe Hunt for Gollum.
The Lord of the RingsandThe Hobbittrilogies are available to watch on Max.
The Hunt for Gollumis expected to be released in 2026.
Laxmi Rajput
Senior Writer
Articles Published :3449
Laxmi Rajput is a Senior Writer at FandomWire, with over 3,300 articles published covering film, TV, and pop culture. With a degree in Broadcast Journalism and over three years of experience in content writing, she pivoted to entertainment journalism because let’s be honest, superheroes, sitcoms, and Netflix binges are way more fun. Laxmi frequently covers Marvel, Harry Potter, Star Wars, and popular TV shows, offering both fan-first enthusiasm and thoughtful analysis. Her work often dives into Marvel theories, revisits the genius of The Big Bang Theory, or unpacks the Netflix phenomenon of Stranger Things.
