The Hobbit is cast

Director decides who will play Bilbo Baggins...

10:38 25 October 2010

Martin Freeman has been chosen to play the coveted role of Bilbo Baggins in the new film adaptation of The Hobbit, it has been announced.

Director Peter Jackson has finally chosen his lead man for the role after stating there had “only ever been one Bilbo Baggins for us”.

Freeman has said that he is “incredibly proud” to be given the role.

The Office funny man will be joined on the film by Spooks actor Richard Armitage and former Eastenders bad boy Rob Kazinsky, who will both play the role of dwarves.

Other British stars appear in the film include Being Human star Aiden Turner and Red Dwarf actor Graham McTavish.

The Hobbit is due to start filming soon, with the first of the two part prequel scheduled for release in December 2012.