Will Aragorn Be Recast? Lord of the Rings Writer Discusses Viggo Mortensen’s Potential Return

As excitement builds for the release of War of the Rohirrim>, hitting theaters this weekend, fans of the Lord of the Rings franchise are turning their attention toward the upcoming film, The Hunt for Gollum. A pressing question on everyone’s mind is whether Viggo Mortensen will reprise his iconic role as Aragorn. Fortunately, there are some hints regarding his potential return.

The current landscape of Middle-earth adaptations is intriguing. Following the conclusion of Peter Jackson’s Hobbit trilogy, the franchise entered a period of dormancy. However, Amazon’s ambitious series, Rings of Power, reinvigorated interest in the Second Age—albeit with mixed reviews from fans.

Recently, it was announced that Peter Jackson, along with collaborators Philippa Boyens and Fran Walsh, would be involved in The Hunt for Gollum, a live-action project directed by Andy Serkis. While Sir Ian McKellen is set to return as Gandalf, the futures of other core actors, including Mortensen, remain uncertain.

Will Viggo Mortensen Return as Aragorn?

Viggo Mortensen as Aragorn in Lord of the Rings. — New Line Cinema

In a recent conversation, Boyens emphasized that telling the story of The Hunt for Gollum would be impossible without including Aragorn. The film is expected to delve into Gollum’s encounters with Sauron in Mordor as he makes his way to the Shire. Notably, Tolkien’s appendices indicate that Gandalf entrusts Aragorn with a mission to locate Gollum, effectively setting the stage for this prequel narrative that unfolds between significant events in The Fellowship of the Ring.

“I would never want to recast that character. I don’t think Andy would either. This is going to be a process,” Boyens shared, hinting at the collaborative effort to involve Mortensen. She noted, “We’re always in touch with Viggo. He has our heart, always, as that particular character. I think, regardless of the scenario, it will involve him. He’s either going to pass the torch or step back into the role.”

Aragorn, Legolas, and Gandalf — New Line Cinema

Boyens pointed out a noteworthy fact about Aragorn’s age: “If you think about how old Aragorn truly is, he’s at the perfect age for the role right now.” In The Fellowship of the Ring, Aragorn is depicted as being 87 years old, while Mortensen is currently 66.

Importantly, Boyens clarified that Mortensen would not be de-aged using AI technology. Instead, they are considering the innovative use of digital makeup to enhance his character. “I understand that many people have concerns about AI, but I believe it should be a tool—akin to the way an actor wears a costume,” she explained.

Speaking with GQ, Mortensen expressed conditional openness to returning to the role. “I would only do it if I fit the character. It wouldn’t make sense otherwise,” he stated, reflecting his commitment to authenticity in portraying Aragorn.

Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim is set to hit cinemas on December 13, offering fans another thrilling chapter in the legendary saga.

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