The cast of “The Hobbit” continues to grow as it gears up to start shooting in February and it looks like another smaller name has joined a cast of faces that, for the most part, will be making their grand debut on international cinema screens.
Swedish paper Nojes Bladet (via TheOneRing) reports that Mikael Persbrandt has joined “The Hobbit.” The actor is popular within his native borders, but not so much outside of them, but arthouse fans maybe recognize him from the excellent “Everlasting Moments,” and he does star in Susanne Bier‘s latest, “In A Better World.”
There’s no word yet on what role he might be playing, but apparently the role will have “Nordic ties.” Fan speculation suggests that he might up for the shape-shifting Beorn, The Master Of Lake Town or Bard The Bowman. But before we put the cart in front of the horse, it should be noted that Persbrandt’s agent, who when asked if he would confirm or deny the news, simply “No comment” to both inquiries. That said, Persbrandt has apparently already done wardrobe testing and our gut feeling is that is that an official confirmation shouldn’t be too far off.
The two part, Peter Jackson-directed “The Hobbit” will be shot in 3D on Epic RED cameras, will be scored once again by ‘Lord Of The Rings’ veteran Howard Shore, and will theaters in December 2012 and 2013.