Middle-earth fans are buzzing as The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, the prequel, begins taking shape, offering a closer look at Aragorn’s early adventures. Viggo Mortensen, who brought Aragorn to life in the original trilogy from 2001 to 2003, seems to have passed the torch as the story explores a younger, untold chapter of the iconic Ranger’s journey.

British actor Leo Woodall is reportedly taking over the role of Aragorn in The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, replacing the legendary Viggo Mortensen, according to Hollywood insider Daniel Richtman.

The recast was necessary to portray a younger Strider during the prequel timeline. Woodall, known for One Day,The White Lotus, and these days, Netflix's Vladimir, steps into the iconic boots for a new generation of Middle-earth stories.

Mortensen, now 67, while initially enthusiastic yet open to return only if suitable, has turned the roles down despite multiple invitations from Philippa Boyens, Andy Serkis, and Peter Jackson, which resulted in casting calls for an Aragorn in his 30s.

This film touches on the Isildur heir's early years as a Ranger of the North, following his quest to track Gollum, developing his leadership, and protecting Middle-earth long before he became king, bridging events between The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring.

While the original trilogy captured epic battles, this new story promises a character-driven journey, exploring the depths of Aragorn and Gollum.

Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum is set in a new Middle-earth adventure

The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum is slated for a December 17, 2027, release, with filming starting in May 2026 in New Zealand. Andy Serkis directs, joined by producers Peter Jackson, Fran Walsh, and Philippa Boyens.

Set 17 years after Bilbo’s birthday party, the film follows Aragorn tracking Gollum through Dead Marshes, Mordor, and Mirkwood under Gandalf’s guidance. This prequel emphasizes psychological drama over epic battles, exploring Gollum’s fractured mind.

Returning actors include Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, and Serkis, while Woodall’s portrayal introduces a younger Aragorn. The new film promises an intriguing start to a Middle-earth prequel series.

What are your thoughts on Leo Woodall stepping into Aragorn’s role? Share your take and let us know in the comments.

Written by

Shraddha Priyadarshi

Edited by

Adiba Nizami