Stephen Colbert to Write Next ‘Lord of the Rings’ Movie After Leaving Late Night Stephen Colbert has revealed his next major project following the end of his 11-year tenure as host of “The Late Show,” announcing he will co-write and develop a new film in the “Lord of the Rings” franchise. The comedian, a longtime fan of J.R.R. Tolkien’s work, shared the news during a conversation with Peter Jackson, the director behind the original “Lord of the Rings” trilogy and the “Hobbit” films. Colbert expressed excitement about the opportunity, emphasizing his deep connection to the source material. The film, tentatively titled “Shadow of the Past,” is set to explore sections of Tolkien’s “The Fellowship of the Ring” that were omitted from the original movie adaptation. Colbert explained that he revisited these chapters repeatedly and realized they could form the basis for a standalone story while still fitting into the broader narrative of the franchise. He noted that the idea was discussed with his son, screenwriter Peter McGee, to outline the story’s structure. Colbert mentioned that he took time to build the courage to approach Jackson about the project, eventually securing their collaboration. The project will also involve screenwriter Philippa Boyens, who has worked on previous “Lord of the Rings” films. Colbert expressed satisfaction that the team has embraced the concept, stating it will be the focus of their efforts moving forward. Colbert’s announcement comes as he prepares to wrap up his time on “The Late Show,” with the final episode scheduled for May 21. He humorously referenced the show’s conclusion in his latest update, quipping that he will be “free starting this summer.” Colbert has long been an avid fan of Tolkien’s work, often referencing the books and films in his comedy segments.#peter_jackson #stephen_colbert #andy_serkis #philippa_boyens #the_lord_of_the_rings
Stephen Colbert Set to Write New 'Lord of the Rings' Film Stephen Colbert has been announced as a co-writer for a new installment in the Lord of the Rings franchise, marking his transition from hosting The Late Show to a new creative endeavor. The film, titled The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past, will be the second of two upcoming projects in the series, following Hunt for Gollum, which is currently in development. Colbert joined director Peter Jackson to reveal the news on social media, confirming his involvement in the project. The film’s synopsis describes a story set 14 years after the events of the original trilogy, focusing on Sam’s daughter, Elanor, who uncovers a long-buried secret about the War of the Ring. The narrative explores why the conflict nearly ended before it began, intertwining past and present to expand the lore of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth. Colbert’s role as a writer will be alongside Philippa Boyens and Peter McGee, with Peter Jackson overseeing the production. Hunt for Gollum, which precedes Shadow of the Past, is set between The Hobbit trilogy and The Lord of the Rings series. It follows Aragorn and Gandalf’s search for Gollum to uncover the truth about Bilbo’s ring, which is revealed to be the One Ring. The film will star Ian McKellen as Gandalf, Andy Serkis as Gollum, and Elijah Wood as Frodo, with Kate Winslet in an undisclosed role. Andy Serkis will also direct Hunt for Gollum, continuing his work on the franchise. The project is produced by Peter Jackson, Fran Walsh, and Philippa Boyens, the trio responsible for the original Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies. Zane Weiner is also listed as a producer. Warner Bros.’ New Line division is set to release Shadow of the Past in theaters on December 17, 2027.#peter_jackson #stephen_colbert #ian_mckellen #andy_serkis #philippa_boyens
