Elijah wood still reading lord of the rings? actor admits to ongoing quest
More than two decades
after captivating audiences as Frodo Baggins, Elijah Wood revealed a surprising truth: he’s still working his way through J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic novels. The actor’s candid admission came during a conversation with Stephen Colbert, offering a refreshingly human perspective on a beloved cinematic legacy.
Wood admits to unfinished reading
Wood, visibly amused, addressed rumors of his supposed lack of completion, stating, “To have it be from you, I feel almost the most embarrassed. I know no one else in my life that loves Tolkien more than you… and has read the books more than maybe anyone.” He clarified that his reading journey began in 1999, around the time principal photography for The Lord of the Rings trilogy commenced.
This revelation arrives as Wood prepares to reprise his iconic role in The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, a prequel set between The Hobbit and The Fellowship of the Ring. The film, slated for a 2027 release, will delve into the events surrounding Gollum’s discovery by Sauron, a period briefly touched upon in The Fellowship of the Ring but largely unexplored.
The project also brings back Ian McKellen as Gandalf and introduces Kate Winslet in a significant, undisclosed role. Details surrounding the film's narrative integration with the established trilogy, and the actors' aging, remain largely under wraps. However, Wood's continued engagement with Tolkien’s world underscores the enduring power of the source material.
The upcoming film marks a significant return to Middle-earth for Wood, who has remained a vocal advocate for the character of Frodo. His commitment to the role, even to the point of still pursuing a full reading of the books, speaks volumes about the impact of Tolkien’s work. The release of The Hunt for Gollum in December 2027 gives Wood approximately 18 months to complete his literary quest – a daunting task for any dedicated fan.
The film’s development also raises questions regarding the chronological consistency of the Lord of the Rings universe, particularly given Peter Jackson's alterations to the narrative in the film adaptations. While the cinematic versions provided a visually stunning interpretation, they inevitably condensed and modified elements of Tolkien's original vision.
Image credit: Jason Howard/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images.
Tom Phillips is IGN’s News Editor. You can reach Tom at [email protected] or find him on Bluesky @tomphillipseg.bsky.social.