Rob Kazinsky quits 'The Hobbit'

Former EastEnders star Rob Kazinsky has quit his role in The Hobbit, it has been confirmed.

The actor had been cast as Fili in the films, which started production in New Zealand last month.

However, director Peter Jackson confirmed on Facebook that Kazinsky has left the J.R.R. Tolkien adaption due to "personal reasons". His role will be recast.

"I am sad to report that Rob Kazinsky, who was cast in the role of Fili, is having to leave The Hobbit and return home, for personal reasons," Jackson said. "Rob has been terrific to work with and his enthusiasm and infectious sense of humour will be missed by all of us.

"I should say that Rob's departure will not affect ongoing filming of The Hobbit, nor will it impact work done to date, as we had yet to film much of Fili's storyline.

"At the moment we are shooting scenes featuring Bilbo without the Dwarves, which will give us time to find a new Fili. I'll keep everyone posted with updates as they come."

Jackson recently confirmed that Sir Ian Holm would be returning as Bilbo Baggins.

Watch Jackson's first video blog from the set of The Hobbit below.