Andy Serkis defends casting decisions as new Lord of the Rings and Animal Farm films face scrutiny

Andy Serkis has addressed criticism over the lack of diversity in the upcoming Lord of the Rings film while defending his new animated Animal Farm adaptation.

• Serkis confirmed he will direct and star in The Hunt for Gollum, set between The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, scheduled for a Christmas 2026 release.
• Serkis acknowledged criticism of the franchise's largely white cast, stating the film will not do "politically correct just-casting-for-the-sake-of-casting" but only diversify "where relevant."
• Serkis said there is "zero chance" his Animal Farm adaptation was funded by the CIA, referring to the original film's covert CIA backing.
• Serkis reported the film earned $5.5 million in its US opening against a $35 million budget, but insisted he knew it would be "polarising."