Stephen Colbert Co-Writes New Lord of the Rings Film

Fans of Middle‑Earth might be getting another reason to plan a theatre trip: Stephen Colbert is co-writing a new Lord of the Rings movie. The announcement came via a video message from Peter Jackson posted by Warner Bros. to mark Tolkien Reading Day, and it confirms a fresh entry titled The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past.

Jackson offered a quick production update on Andy Serkis’ The Hunt for Gollum — Serkis will both direct and reprise his role as Gollum — before introducing Colbert as a “very special partner.” Colbert is collaborating with his son Peter and veteran screenwriter Philippa Boyens, who co-wrote the original film trilogy.

The new project draws from early chapters of Fellowship of the Ring that didn’t appear in Jackson’s 2001 film. Specifically, the adaptation focuses on chapters III through VIII, but the film’s timeline jumps forward: Shadow of the Past is set roughly 14 years after Return of the King. That structure allows the story to follow Sam, Merry and Pippin as they retrace steps from their earlier adventure while also introducing Sam’s daughter Elanor on her own quest.

Colbert and his son reportedly developed their idea over several years before sharing it with Jackson, who responded positively. With The Late Show winding down, Colbert will soon have time to devote to the project. No cast has been confirmed yet, though the time jump leaves open the possibility of cameos or returns from actors like Sean Astin, Billy Boyd and Dominic Monaghan.

There’s no release date announced, but the timing of the reveal coincides with the 25th anniversary celebrations for Fellowship of the Ring, which recently returned to cinemas. For now, fans can file this under promising developments: an experienced creative team, a fresh angle on familiar material and a clear nod to Tolkien’s lesser-seen chapters.