Ian McKellen reprises Gandalf for The Hobbit – Gollum back!

Today we can report the best Hobbit news to date! Two well-loved Lord of the Rings trilogy characters are back for the prequel. We already shared the good news that Cate Blanchett would appear in the latest Tolkein inspired film. According the buzz, Elijah Wood will grace the screen, too. But your Gandalf and your Gollum will also make triumphant returns.

The Hollywood Reporter said it was official, Ian McKellen signed the dotted line to portray Gandalf for Peter Jackson in the new Hobbit movie and its sequel.

It was Deadline.com that sang the news of Andy Serkis and his return to Middle Earth. But if you’ve never read the book, THR revealed, “Gollum appears in a chapter that has gone on to be one of the most memorable in all of fantasy literature.” Wow! We sure are glad it is Serkis who can bring that event to life.

Of course here at BSC we’ve got the skinny on the new Bilbo actor, as well as the character of Bofur.

Who else will join the party? An offer was extended to your Legolas, but no word yet on whether the deal will happen. And according to Deadline veteran actor Christopher Lee is in talks to return as the wizard Saruman, while Ian Holm could also return to portray the older version of Bilbo with which fans are more familiar.