Frodo’s Long-Awaited Literary Journey: Elijah Wood Finally Dives into The Lord of the Rings
For many, the name Elijah Wood is inextricably linked with Frodo Baggins, the hobbit who bravely carried the One Ring through the perilous landscapes of Middle-earth in Peter Jackson’s acclaimed film trilogy. Released between 2001 and 2003, these cinematic masterpieces brought J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved fantasy world to life for millions. Yet, in a twist that has long baffled fans and colleagues alike, Wood himself admits to never having read the epic novel that formed the basis of his iconic role. Astonishingly, this literary gap has persisted for over 27 years since his casting.
However, the tide is finally turning. During a recent appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, a self-proclaimed Tolkien aficionado, the 45-year-old actor revealed that he has, at long last, embarked on his literary pilgrimage through Tolkien’s masterpiece.
Colbert, ever the keen interviewer and a genuine expert on all things Tolkien, didn’t shy away from addressing the widely known secret. “I have this other rumour I need to get into with you,” Colbert stated, with a playful glint in his eye. “And I don’t want to put you on the spot here, OK? Is it true that you still haven’t finished reading The Lord of the Rings?”
Wood, who is currently generating buzz for his role in the new horror-comedy Ready or Not 2: Here I Come, responded with a laugh, confessing a degree of embarrassment. “To have it be from you, I feel almost the most embarrassed, Stephen,” he admitted. “Because I know no one else in my life that loves Tolkien more than you and has read the books more than maybe anyone.”
To lighten the mood, Wood offered a significant update: “I’ll at least say this. There’s an update. I have started them.”
Tolkien’s monumental work, chronicling the rich tapestry of Middle-earth with its orcs, elves, and hobbits, was meticulously crafted between 1937 and 1949, with its publication in the 1950s marking a pivotal moment in literature.
A New Era for Middle-earth on Screen
Perhaps coincidentally, or perhaps as a gentle nudge, Wood’s decision to finally tackle the thousand-plus-page novel coincides with the development of a new Lord of the Rings film.
Andy Serkis, renowned for his indelible performance as the complex character Gollum in the original trilogy and The Hobbit films, is set to direct and star in The Hunt for Gollum. This upcoming project will delve deeper into the story of the cunning creature Serkis so brilliantly brought to life.
While Sir Ian McKellen has officially confirmed his return as the wise wizard Gandalf, the involvement of other original cast members, including Wood, remains officially undisclosed. However, speculation is rife that Wood will indeed feature in the production, which is slated to commence filming in New Zealand in July. Adding fuel to the fire, Wood himself hinted to The Times in March 2026 that McKellen “let the cat out of the bag” at a convention the previous year, suggesting his potential participation.
“So there is a good chance,” Wood remarked. “I’m not able to officially say anything until it’s announced, but I will say I’m thrilled with the prospect of another film.” He further expressed a strong desire to continue playing Frodo, stating, “I certainly wouldn’t want anybody else to play Frodo either as long as I’m alive and able.”
Other Familiar Faces and New Beginnings
The enthusiasm for returning to Middle-earth isn’t limited to Wood. Viggo Mortensen, who portrayed the noble Aragorn in Peter Jackson’s iconic trilogy, has also expressed his willingness to reprise the role. Speaking to The Independent series Go to Bat, Mortensen indicated he would be open to returning “if it seemed right and was faithful to what Tolkien wrote.” However, reports suggest that producers are reportedly considering Leo Woodall, known for his role in One Day, for the part of Aragorn.
The Hunt for Gollum is anticipated for release in 2027, a timeframe that might just align with Wood potentially completing his reading of The Lord of the Rings. This convergence of his literary and cinematic journeys promises to be a significant moment for both the actor and the enduring legacy of Tolkien’s creation.
The journey of Elijah Wood into the pages of The Lord of the Rings is more than just a personal reading project; it’s a symbolic return to the roots of a story that has profoundly impacted popular culture. As he finally navigates the written word, fans eagerly await his insights and the potential for his return to the screen, further cementing his place in the annals of Middle-earth’s cinematic history.
