Tolkien Lawsuit Settled

Variety reports that New Line has settled a lawsuit with the HarperCollins and the Tolkien Trust over profit participation in the Lord of the Rings films.  The terms of the settlement are confidential, but this is an important decision for New Line as it clears any potential stumbling block to the production of their movies based on The Hobbit.

The Tolkien Trust did not bring this lawsuit solely to increase the wealth of its members.  The Trust supports over 1oo charities, including Save the Children Fund, the Darfur Appeal, Asia Earthquake Appeal and the World Cancer Research Foundation.  This settlement will enhance their ability to support these causes.