Another "The Lord of the Rings" actor will likely make a return to Middle Earth. After Cate Blanchett was officially announced joining "The Hobbit" cast, Orlando Bloom is now "near a deal" to reprise his role as Elven archer Legolas in the upcoming adventure movie, Deadline Hollywood says. And for information, his return is possibly for more than a cameo.
Other "LOTR" trilogy stars Ian McKellen, Hugo Weaving and Andy Serkis are also expected to reprise their roles as Gandalf, Lord Elrond and Gollum respectively in "The Hobbit". However, according to Deadline, the talks with them "have been arduous and aren't completed yet."
"The Hobbit", which will be split into two parts, will re-create the scenes of the novel, with additional events that make an impact to "The Lords of the Rings", such as the expulsion of Sauron from Mirkwood by The White Council has. Martin Freeman takes the lead role of Bilbo Baggins, with Richard Armitage, Aidan Turner, Sylvester McCoy and more joining the cast ensemble.
Peter Jackson will serve as director for the movie in addition to writing the script along with Fran Walsh, Guillermo del Toro and Philippa Boyens. Production is planned to begin in February 2011 in New Zealand.