Martin Freeman, star of the British version of The Office has been cast in the role of Bilbo Baggins in the two-part “Lord of the Rings” prequel film “The Hobbit”.
Director Peter Jackson said in a statement yesterday: “Despite the various rumors and speculation surrounding this role, there has only ever been one Bilbo Baggins for us.”
He calls Freeman, 39, “intelligent, funny, surprising and brave — exactly like Bilbo.”
“There are a few times in your career when you come across an actor who you know was born to play a role, but that was the case as soon as I met Martin.”
Also descending upon The Shire will be Richard Armitage as Thorin Oakenshield, Aidan Turner as Kili, Rob Kazinsky as Fili, Graham McTavish as Dwalin, John Callen as Olin, Stephen Hunter as Bombur, Mark Hadlow as Dori, and Peter Hambleton as Gloin.
It is not yet known if Sir Ian McKellen will return as as Gandalf or if Andy Serkis (A.K.A. Gollum) will make an appearance in the movies.
The two films are set to be released in December 2012 and December 2013. Filming will begin in February.
Related articles
- The Hobbit Cast Announced, Martin Freeman Is Bilbo (cinemablend.com)
- ‘Hobbit’ Castings Revealed; Martin Freeman Confirmed as Bilbo (moviefone.com)
- ‘The Hobbit’ Casting Announced; Martin Freeman to Play Bilbo Baggins (gossipcop.com)
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