McAvoy Won’t Do It

We already know this but might as well make it official:

James McAvoy has denied claims that he will play Bilbo Baggins in the upcoming Hobbit films.

The actor was reported to be among the frontrunners to play the lead role in the adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord Of The Rings prequel.

Speaking at a press conference for new film Wanted, he said: “It’s not true. It’s all internet rumouring and nothing else I’m afraid. Sorry.”

Director Guillermo del Toro recently told Empire that he and producer Peter Jackson had the same actor in mind for the role.

The Hobbit and its sequel will be shot back to back in New Zealand from next year.