Director Peter Jackson and crew have spent the last few weeks shooting extra scenes and pick-up shots for the next two chapters of his prequel saga The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug and The Hobbit: There and Back Again, as well as any extra needed shots for the Extended Edition of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey. Today, he announced that star Ian McKellen has wrapped shooting on the trilogy, saying good-bye to the character of Gandalf forever on set.

Peter Jackson posted this sad photo of his friend moments after the final cut was called, along with a short message.

The Hobbit Set Photo with Peter Jackson and Ian McKellen

"Seconds ago we finished our last shot with Gandalf. The end of an incredible adventure that began in 1999. I'm feeling very sad right now."

Fans not on set don't have to feel so sad quite yet. They'll be seeing plenty of Gandalf on December 13 of this year, when The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug debuts in theaters. And then they can say their final good-byes December 17, 2014, when The Hobbit: There and Back Again becomes the final chapter in this six film spanning series to hit screens. Just remember, we'll always have The Lord of the Rings!