The co-star of Keira Knightley in 'Atonement' has come forward to dismiss speculation about him being considered for Bilbo Baggins role.
- June 13, 2008
AceShowbiz -
Dramatic actor James McAvoy is the strongest candidate to depict the main character, Bilbo Baggins, in the movie adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's novel, "The Hobbit". That would be an old story because the celebrated "Atonement" star has spoken out about the news denying any involvement on the movie project.
Shedding some lights to the speculation of him being the leading contender for the role, McAvoy calmly put off the fire ignited earlier. In a press junked for his upcoming action movie "Wanted (2008)" in London, the supporting actor to Forest Whitaker in "The Last King of Scotland" addressed the rumor stating that the news is false. "...it's not true by the way, it's all internet rumoring and nothing else I'm afraid," said the 29-year-old. "Sorry."
Directed by Guillermo del Toro and co-produced by Peter Jackson, "The Hobbit" will be the first of two films made based on Tolkien's novel of the same name. The movie that follows the adventure of Baggins in retaining a treasure taken by the dragon Smaug and gaining possession of the One Ring. It will be shot in New Zealand sometime in 2009 for its theatrical release on December 1, 2011. Some of other actors rumored to be among the cast ensemble are Ian McKellen and Andy Serkis, while Viggo Mortensen reportedly has been approached to reprise his role as Aragon.
