New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Director Rejects ‘Politically Correct’ Casting

Andy Serkis said his upcoming “Lord of the Rings” film will not embrace “politically correct” casting, saying he won’t prioritize diversity for its own sake. 

Speaking to the BBC, Serkis, who is directing “The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum” and portrayed Gollum in Peter Jackson’s film trilogy, said J.R.R. Tolkien’s fantasy world was inspired by Norse mythology and that diversity would be included only “where relevant.”

Serkis said Tolkien’s depiction of the Shire reflects its inspiration in Northern European folklore.

“The Shire feels very, very much like a very, a very white, you know …” he said, trailing off before continuing. “They’re not very concerned about what goes on beyond the borders of The Shire, but they know they don’t want people coming in.”

His highly anticipated upcoming movie features a predominantly white cast, including Jamie Dornan, Anya Taylor-Joy, Kate Winslet, and Leo Woodall, with returning stars Elijah Wood and Sir Ian McKellen. 

During the BBC interview, Serkis acknowledged criticism of the original franchise but added that diversity would be included only where it fit the story.  

“This particular film is somewhat acknowledging that, but I don’t think we will be doing a politically correct just-casting-for-the sake-of-casting-and-ticking-boxes version of the film,” Serkis said.

The original “Lord of the Rings” trilogy faced criticism from some commentators over its lack of racial diversity. Amazon’s later adaptation, “The Rings of Power,” drew criticism from others for introducing race-swapped elves, dwarves, and other characters. 

Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk took to X in 2022 to comment on the movie, saying “Tolkien is turning in his grave.”

In a 2018 interview with Radio Times, the 62-year-old voiced his agreement with Hollywood’s diverse casting. Serkis said his experience as one of the few white actors filming “The Black Panther” helped him understand how minorities feel on set. 

“[Director] Ryan Coogler said to me and Martin, ‘Guys, I have to tell you this, but this is the first scene I’ve directed with two White actors in it,’” Serkis said. “That’s an incredible perspective to find yourself in.”

“The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum” is scheduled for release in December 2027.