Radcliffe, McAvoy, and Tennant Rumored for ‘Hobbit’

Published by Jeff Leins on: July 17th, 2009

Update: Peter Jackson denies any sort of announcement at Comic-Con and says they’re still finishing the script.  They’ve only just started to discuss casting choices.

The first of two Hobbit films doesn’t hit until 2011, but already casting rumors are rampant.  Fans are eager to know who will adventure through the continued world of Peter Jackson under the new direction of Guillermo del Toro.

The LA Times’ Hero Complex has been hearing “whispers” of possible actors for the role of Bilbo Baggins.  Since the adaptation is a prequel to the epic trilogy already committed to film, Ian Holm won’t be strapping on the rubber feet again.  Instead the choices include Harry Potter himself (Daniel Radcliffe), Wanted star James McAvoy, and “Doctor Who” David Tennant.

I seriously doubt Radcliffe would tie himself up in another magical franchise this soon after escaping Hogwarts, especially after stating publicly he wants to do smaller, intimate movies.  Tennant is lesser known, though I suppose it doesn’t matter when it’s more Tolkien.  McAvoy seems like the logical choice and would be my pick of the three for the part.

The blog also speculates Jackson will announce the new Bilbo at San Diego Comic-Con next week and that perhaps Tennant’s appearance to promote the hit show will serve as a dual purpose.  Unless Guillermo del Toro is also making the trip, I wouldn’t expect to hear the big news already.

Expect to return are Hugo Weaving as Lord of Rivendell, Andy Serkis as Gollum, and Ian McKellen as Gandalf.