Anya Taylor-Joy Hasn't Read 'Lord of the Rings' Books

Anya Taylor-Joy, who has been cast in the upcoming film "The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum," stated that she has not yet read J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" books. Taylor-Joy shared this information with Variety's Marc Malkin during the premiere of her new project on Monday night. She indicated that she is "about to read the books now, actually." While a childhood fan of the "Harry Potter" series, Taylor-Joy is now preparing to immerse herself in Tolkien's Middle-earth. The film, "The Hunt for Gollum," is a continuation of the "Lord of the Rings" franchise and is expected to explore the character of Gollum. Andy Serkis is set to direct and reprise his role as Gollum. The project was announced in May 2024, with Warner Bros. Pictures Group co-chairs and co-CEOs Michael De Luca and Pam Abdy confirming its development. Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh are also involved as executive producers. The specific release date for "The Hunt for Gollum" has not yet been announced, but it is anticipated to be part of a slate of new Middle-earth films from Warner Bros. and New Line Cinema.