The role of Aragorn in The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum will be played by a new actor. Recent reports confirm the production is now searching for a younger star to take on the part originated by Viggo Mortensen, moving forward without the original trilogy star. Auditions for the pivotal role are reportedly happening in London and New Zealand as the film prepares for its shoot.
This decision follows months of speculation about whether Mortensen would return. While the actor was open to a comeback and producers spoke with him, the story’s requirement for a younger Aragorn has led to a recast. The film, directed by and starring Andy Serkis as Gollum, is scheduled for release on December 17, 2027.
Why Viggo Mortensen Is Not Returning as Aragorn
The core reason for the recast is the story’s place in the Middle-earth timeline. The Hunt for Gollum is set in the years leading up to The Fellowship of the Ring, requiring Aragorn to be a younger man in his late teens or twenties. Viggo Mortensen, who is now 67, played the character over two decades ago. The age difference between the actor and the character at this earlier point in the story is a significant creative hurdle.
In May 2024, Mortensen shared his thoughts on a potential return, stating he would only do it if he was “right for it in terms of, you know, the age I am now and so forth”. He emphasized the importance of the decision making sense for the character. While the film’s writer and producer, Philippa Boyens, expressed a strong desire to have Mortensen back, she noted the choice was ultimately his and depended on the script. Discussions reportedly included the potential use of digital technology to make the actor appear younger, but this path is not being pursued.
Philippa Boyens stated, “I’ve spoken to Viggo, Andy [Serkis] has spoken to him, Peter [Jackson] has spoken to himโฆ I cannot imagine anyone else playing Aragorn, but it will be completely and entirely up to Viggo”.
The search for a new actor indicates those conversations have concluded, and the production is moving in a different direction to honor the story’s chronological demands.
The Hunt for the New Aragorn: Potential Candidates and Fan Guesses
With the role officially open, speculation about who could fill Aragorn’s boots is running high across fan communities and entertainment news. The production is reportedly seeking a younger actor, which has sparked numerous suggestions online.
A popular fan choice is Leo Suter, known for his role in Vikends: Valhalla. Supporters point to his physical resemblance to a younger Mortensen and his proven ability in action-oriented, historical settings. Another name frequently mentioned is Paul Mescal, an actor who has gained significant attention for his roles in Normal People and Gladiator II. Fans believe he could bring a grounded, emotional depth to the character of a young ranger unsure of his kingly future.
Other actors on fan lists include:
- Cosmo Jarvis, praised for his rugged intensity in Shลgun.
- Richard Madden, who carries experience with epic fantasy from Game of Thrones.
- Alexander Skarsgรฅrd, suggested for a wilder, more physically imposing take on the Ranger.
It is crucial to note that these are fan suggestions and rumors. No official shortlist or confirmed frontrunner has been announced by Warner Bros. or the film’s producers. The auditions currently underway aim to find the right actor who can embody both the ruggedness of Strider and the latent nobility of Aragorn, son of Arathorn.
Returning Cast Members and Story Details
While Aragorn will have a new face, several iconic characters from Peter Jackson’s original trilogy are set to return, played by the original actors. Andy Serkis will direct the film and reprise his role as Gollum, a part he has become synonymous with.
Significantly, Ian McKellen has strongly indicated he will return as Gandalf the Grey. At a fan event in August 2025, he revealed that the character of Gandalf is in the film. Elijah Wood is also expected to return as Frodo Baggins. Wood has spoken positively about early scripts and was seen in New Zealand, where filming will take place.
The story will explore the hunt for the creature Gollum, a key event briefly described in the novels. The plot involves Gandalf, growing suspicious about the true nature of Bilbo’s ring, tasking Aragorn with tracking down Gollum before the enemy of Sauron can find him. The film promises to show this journey from Gollum’s perspective, delving into the character’s complex psychology.
Peter Jackson, along with his longtime collaborators Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens, is producing the film, ensuring a strong link to the cinematic world fans know. The script is being written by Walsh, Boyens, Phoebe Gittins, and Arty Papageorgiou.
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Production Timeline and Global Release Plans
Pre-production for The Hunt for Gollum is actively moving forward. Director Andy Serkis and key crew members arrived in New Zealand in September 2025 to begin preparations. Filming is expected to start in mid-2026.
The release date was officially set by Warner Bros. on May 8, 2025. The film will debut in theaters on December 17, 2027. This is a shift from an initial late 2026 window, allowing more time for development and production. Like the original trilogy, the movie will be filmed in New Zealand, maintaining a visual and creative continuity with the earlier films.
The film is one of two new live-action Lord of the Rings movies in development at Warner Bros., signaling a new chapter for Middle-earth on the big screen.
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