Martin Freeman Might Still Play Bilbo Baggins in 'The Hobbit'« FirstShowing.net

Theinitial storythat precedes this bit of news didn't make it over here simply because an actornotstepping into a coveted role isn't all that newsworthy unless the actor whoactuallygets the role is mentioned in the same breath. But it looks like we have some fuel for the fire asEWreportsMartin Freeman(Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy,Love Actually) could still end up playing Bilbo Baggins in the troubled yet anticipated production ofThe Hobbitwith Peter Jackson finally at the helm. A commitment to BBC's series"Sherlock"(where he plays Dr. Watson) initially held him back, but a new schedule proposal may allow him to do both.

No doubt it would be an exhausting run for Freeman, but it might be well worth it for a role of this caliber that will certainly make him a household name. Freeman already has made a decent name for himself in the original British version of"The Office"not to mentionHitchhiker's Guideand bit parts in films likeShaun of the DeadandHot Fuzz, but this would be huge. Personally, I love the choice, and if New Line and MGM want him badly enough to jockey around their production schedule to accommodate his other commitments, he's obviously impressed all the right people. Apparently a deal is currently being negotiated so this is the most official word we've heard on casting Bilbo Baggins. Ireallyhope it happens.What do you think?

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