With the news that “The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum” will recast the role of Aragorn, the Middle-earth fandom has entered a state of high-gear speculation. The film, directed by Andy Serkis, will follow the future King’s early adventures as a Ranger, tracking Gollum across the wilderness.
Because the story takes place in the decades leading up to “The Fellowship of the Ring,” the production is seeking a younger actor, as well as fresh talent, in London and New Zealand. Still, these ten famous actors have risen to the top of the conversation as fan-favorite picks.
Cosmo Jarvis
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Having delivered a powerhouse performance in Shōgun, Jarvis has rapidly ascended to the top of many fan casting lists. His ability to project a rugged, weather-worn intensity makes him a natural fit for a Ranger who has spent decades wandering the wild. Many viewers believe his unpolished, soulful screen presence captures the specific Strider energy that Viggo Mortensen first brought to life.
Michael Fassbender
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Fassbender remains a perennial favorite for any role requiring a blend of lethal physicality and high-tier dramatic acting. Even though the production is reportedly eyeing younger talent, his name persists because of his undeniable gravitas and experience in historical epics like 300 and Macbeth. Supporters argue that his sharp features and piercing gaze would give this version of Aragorn a dangerous, intellectual edge.
Leo Suter
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As a breakout star of Vikings: Valhalla, Suter has already proven he can handle the grueling demands of a sword-swinging epic. Fans frequently point to his striking facial similarity to a younger Mortensen, noting that he shares that same mixture of kindness and warrior grit. His age aligns more closely with the studio’s rumored vision for a protagonist who is still in his prime tracking years.
Richard Madden
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Best known as the “King in the North” from Game of Thrones, Madden has the noble bearing and the grit required to carry a massive fantasy franchise. He excels at playing characters who are burdened by duty and heritage, a core theme for any actor taking on the heir of Isildur. While some fear he might be too closely associated with the Stark family, others believe his growth into more mature roles makes him a top-tier candidate.
Ben Barnes
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Long a darling of the fantasy genre through projects like The Chronicles of Narnia and Shadow and Bone, Barnes is a consistent fan favorite. He possesses the classic, soulful look of a Tolkien hero and has openly expressed his love for the source material in the past. Although recent reports suggest casting directors might view him as “too old” for a 20-year-prequel, his loyal following continues to push for his consideration.
Sebastian Stan
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Stan has a unique ability to play brooding, silent characters who say more with a look than with dialogue, a trait essential for the early days of Strider. His work as the Winter Soldier proved he can handle complex stunt choreography and long-term character arcs across multiple films. While he is often grouped with the “too established” crowd, his fans believe he has the range to disappear into the role of a desperate tracker.
Alexander Skarsgård
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Following his feral turn in The Northman, Skarsgård is frequently cited as the best choice for an Aragorn who is more “wild” than “royal.” He has the towering height and the intimidating physical presence described in Tolkien’s texts, alongside a proven ability to play characters living on the fringes of society. Supporters believe he could bring a raw, Viking-like survivalism to the character that we haven’t seen on screen before.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson
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Renowned for his versatility in everything from Bullet Train to Kraven the Hunter, Taylor-Johnson is often mentioned for his chameleon-like acting style. He has the athletic build and the intensity needed for the Ranger’s hunt, as well as a history of taking on legendary roles with a fresh perspective. Fans think he could capture the “ranger” aspect of the character particularly well, focusing on the agility and stealth needed to track Gollum.
Sam Heughan
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As the lead of Outlander, Heughan has spent years mastering the art of the rugged, romantic hero in a historical setting. He is no stranger to the physical toll of filming in harsh environments or the complexity of playing a leader who is often on the run. His fans argue that he has the perfect vocal range and the commanding stature to eventually grow into the role of a King.
Paul Mescal
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Mescal has become one of the most sought-after actors in Hollywood following his work in Gladiator II and Normal People. He brings a deeply emotional and grounded sensitivity to his roles, which could highlight the internal conflict Aragorn feels about his lineage. His rising star power and proven talent for prestige action make him a fascinating option for a total reboot of the character’s image.
