Movies

'Conchords' McKenzie to star in 'Hobbit'?

Published Friday, Apr 1 2011, 02:46 BST | By Rebecca Davies | Add comment

Peter Jackson is trying to recruit Bret McKenzie for The Hobbit, it has been reported.

The New Zealand comedian, who is best known for his role in series Flight Of The Conchords, had a cameo role in the Lord Of The Rings as an elf. AAP reports that he is allegedly now wanted for a more important part in the prequel.

The movie takes place 60 years before the events of the Lord Of The Rings trilogy, following Bilbo Baggins on a quest to reclaim the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor from a dragon. Martin Freeman has been confirmed as Baggins, but it is unknown which role Jackson wants McKenzie to take.

Other cast members include Cate Blanchett, Elijah Wood, Richard Armitage, James Nesbitt, Rob Kazinsky, Sir Ian McKellen and Andy Serkis.

Jackson started filming in Wellington two weeks ago after many delays due to his poor health, financial problems and an actors' strike.

The first part of the Tolkien movie is scheduled for release next year, with the second part due to follow in 2013.