Amazon has spent the last few years developing an original television series that serves as a prequel to J.R.R. Tolkien's beloved The Lord of the Rings trilogy. While we still don't know if Sir Ian McKellan is returning to the Shire as Gandalf, a director has now been announced for the project.
As Deadline reports, Amazon has hired J.A. Bayona to helm the project. The director — known for Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom and A Monster Calls — will direct the first two episodes of the series, setting the tone for the whole project.
"J.R.R. Tolkien created one of the most extraordinary and inspiring stories of all time, and as a lifelong fan it is an honor and a joy to join this amazing team," Bayona said in a statement. "I can't wait to take audiences around the world to Middle-earth and have them discover the wonders of the Second Age, with a never before seen story."
The series is being written by JD Payne and Patrick McKay. The series has a multi-season commitment as per a nine-figure deal with the Tolkien Estate.
As Deadline reports, Amazon has hired J.A. Bayona to helm the project. The director — known for Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom and A Monster Calls — will direct the first two episodes of the series, setting the tone for the whole project.
"J.R.R. Tolkien created one of the most extraordinary and inspiring stories of all time, and as a lifelong fan it is an honor and a joy to join this amazing team," Bayona said in a statement. "I can't wait to take audiences around the world to Middle-earth and have them discover the wonders of the Second Age, with a never before seen story."
The series is being written by JD Payne and Patrick McKay. The series has a multi-season commitment as per a nine-figure deal with the Tolkien Estate.
