Elijah Wood Admits ‘Embarrassment’ Over Lord of the Rings Book Revelation

Elijah Wood, known for playing Frodo Baggins in Peter Jackson’s films, revealed he had not read The Lord of the Rings until very recently. He told Stephen Colbert that the admission left him feeling embarrassed. He also confirmed he has now started the books.

Colbert interview and Wood’s admission

Colbert raised the issue during an appearance on The Late Show. The host, a noted Tolkien enthusiast, asked whether Wood had finished the books.

Wood admitted he felt shame at the revelation. He said, “To have it be from you, I feel almost the most embarrassed, Stephen.” He added, “I’ll at least say this. There’s an update. I have started them.”

Context and career notes

Wood was the face of Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy, released from 2001 to 2003. He has not read the novels in the roughly 27 years since he was cast.

He is 45 years old and currently appearing in the horror comedy Ready or Not 2: Here I Come. The interview prompted renewed attention to his reading update.

On the books and a new film

J.R.R. Tolkien wrote The Lord of the Rings between 1937 and 1949. The novels were published in the 1950s and remain central to Middle-earth adaptations.

Elijah Wood admitted embarrassment over a Lord of the Rings book revelation during the Colbert chat. That confession arrived as new Middle-earth projects move forward.

Potential returns and upcoming productions

Andy Serkis is directing and starring in The Hunt for Gollum, a film focusing on the character Gollum. The project is slated for release in 2027.

Sir Ian McKellen is confirmed to return as Gandalf. It is not official whether Wood will reprise Frodo, but he is widely expected to appear.

Wood’s comments about a sequel

Wood told The Times in March 2026 that McKellen “let the cat out of the bag” about the production at a convention. He said, “So there is a good chance,” regarding his involvement.

He added he could not make any official announcements yet. He also said he would be thrilled at the prospect and would not want another actor to play Frodo while he is able.

Other returning cast and casting reports

Viggo Mortensen, who played Aragorn, said he would reprise the role if the project felt right and remained faithful to Tolkien. Reports suggest producers are considering One Day star Leo Woodall for a role.

Filming is expected to begin in New Zealand in July. The Hunt for Gollum’s 2027 release could coincide with when Wood finishes reading the novels.

Filmogaz.com will monitor developments as casting and production news emerge.