Andy Serkis defends lack of diversity in Lord of the Rings cast
Actor Andy Serkis discusses his upcoming role directing and starring in 'The Hunt for Gollum' while addressing historical criticisms regarding the lack of diversity in the Lord of the Rings franchise. He emphasizes his ongoing commitment to equality in the film industry.
Why it matters
It highlights the tension between legacy fantasy franchises and modern expectations for inclusive casting and representation.
Image source, Getty Images By Colin Paterson Entertainment correspondent Published 42 minutes ago Andy Serkis is the master of motion capture. He is Gollum in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, Caesar in the Planet of Ape series, and Peter Jackson's King Kong.
So, it feels kind of appropriate that our interview is happening virtually. He is speaking on a screen from New Zealand, where he is directing and starring in the next Lord of the Rings film, The Hunt for Gollum, which is scheduled to land in cinemas in time for Christmas next year.
"It sits absolutely between The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings trilogies, and books in fact," he explains handily, as it can be difficult to keep up with the ever-expanding Tolkienverse.
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