Peter Jackson to produce new Middle-earth movies: Return to 'The Lord of the Rings'

Twenty years after "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King" premiere and ten years since "The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies," director Peter Jackson is making a highly anticipated return to Middle-earth. Along with fellow creators from the landmark trilogies, he is set to embark on a journey to produce at least two new movies based on Tolkien's legendary universe.

David Zaslav, CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery, has officially revealed that Warner Bros. is gearing up to deliver a special treat for Tolkien enthusiasts. The studio has signed contracts to create a series of films set in the enchanting realms of Middle-earth, with at least two projects currently in development. The first of these is slated for release in 2026.

The initial movie, "Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum," promises an exciting venture. Andy Serkis, celebrated for his portrayal of Gollum in both "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit," will take the helm as director. Adding to the excitement, the team of writers and producers includes key figures from the original movies, such as Peter Jackson, Fran Walsh, and Philippa Boyens.

- "It is an honor and a privilege to travel back to Middle-earth with our good friend and collaborator, Andy Serkis, who has unfinished business with that stinker – Gollum!" announced the trio, Jackson, Walsh, and Boyens.

Andy Serkis has earned widespread acclaim and recognition for his pioneering work in motion and face capture technology, not only as Gollum but also for portraying Caesar in the "Planet of the Apes" saga, Snoke in "Star Wars," and appearances in movies such as "Andor," "Black Panther," "Luther: The Fallen Sun," and "Batman." Moreover, Serkis has made his mark as a director with films like "Breathe," "Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle," and "Venom 2: Let There Be Carnage."

It bears highlighting that the three "The Lord of the Rings" films, released between 2001 and 2003, amassed $3 billion in earnings and collected seventeen Oscars. Though "The Hobbit" trilogy, spread out from 2012 to 2014, didn't captivate the Academy (receiving zero Oscars out of seven nominations), it still raked in nearly $3 billion at the global box office.

Before the Gollum-centric movie arrives in theaters, Tolkien fans can dive back into Middle-earth with the second season of "The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power." Eight fresh episodes are poised to premiere on Amazon Prime Video later this year, promising more adventures and lore for devoted fans and newcomers alike.