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Colbert Announces New LOTR Film with Peter Jackson

4/2/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Stephen Colbert announced a movie project, The Lord of the Rings: Shadows of the Past, with director Peter Jackson.
The film will explore early J.R.R. Tolkien chapters not included in Jackson's original trilogy.
Colbert plans to re-translate the Red Book of Westmarch.
The Late Show With Stephen Colbert will conclude in May 2026.

History

Historical Context

Peter Jackson's film trilogy of The Lord of the Rings, released between 2001 and 2003, transformed fantasy cinema, grossing over $2.9 billion worldwide. Based on J.R.R. Tolkien's novels, the films introduced audiences to Middle-earth and won 17 Academy Awards, including Best Picture for The Return of the King. The ongoing adaptations, including Stephen Colbert's new project, highlight Tolkien's enduring cultural impact.

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Story summary

Stephen Colbert announced a movie project, The Lord of the Rings: Shadows of the Past, with director Peter Jackson.
The film will explore early J.R.R. Tolkien chapters not included in Jackson's original trilogy.
Colbert plans to re-translate the Red Book of Westmarch.
The Late Show With Stephen Colbert will conclude in May 2026.

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