Stephen Colbert, soon to leave “The Late Show,” revealed plans to co-write a screenplay for The Lord of the Rings: Shadow of the Past alongside his son, Peter McGee. McGee’s credits are limited: one prior production assistant role for his father’s show, Tooning Out The News, and this upcoming film.

The announcement came through Warner Bros. and was highlighted by producer Peter Jackson, who introduced Colbert and his concept in a YouTube post. The film will adapt six chapters from the early portion of The Fellowship of the Ring, from “Three is Company” through “Fog on the Barrow-Downs,” which Jackson did not originally develop for the movies.

According to Colbert, the project aims to remain faithful both to the books and the existing films. He described collaborating with his son on a framing device for the story, which follows characters Samwise Gamgee, Pippin Took, and Merry Brandybuck 14 years after Frodo Baggins’ passing.

Industry observers note the choice to pair a late-night host and his son with minimal professional writing experience raises questions about Warner Bros.’ decision-making and the opportunity afforded to more experienced screenwriters.

Fans of the original series have expressed concern over whether Colbert’s involvement will maintain the thematic integrity of the story. The “Lord of the Rings” series is celebrated for emphasizing loyalty, perseverance, and companionship, values that some critics argue could be compromised under a Hollywood production guided by a known left-wing personality.

The project’s development highlights ongoing debates in Hollywood over creative choices, celebrity influence, and the balance between faithful adaptations and high-profile involvement. Warner Bros. has not yet released a release date or further production details.