The Hobbit (film series) appearing in "The Hobbit" films. In early October 2010, it was confirmed by the studio that Martin Freeman had been cast in the role of Bilbo Baggins. It was revealed that he had earlier been approached by the producers to play a role in the films, but was forced to turn it down because of scheduling conflicts with the BBC television series "Sherlock". At the time, Freeman was quoted as saying, "[I]f something could be worked out, that would be great. I did it [turned down the role] with a heavy heart, definitely." On his casting, Peter Jackson was quoted
Middle-earth dwarf characters following 13 dwarves; their quest in "The Hobbit" is the main impetus of the plot of that story. Their quest, which occurred in , was joined by Bilbo Baggins (a hobbit) and occasionally by the wizard Gandalf. Thorin II Oakenshield ( – 2941) was the King of Durin's Folk who led the expedition to destroy Smaug in T.A. 2941 and was slain in the Battle of Five Armies. In Peter Jackson's "The Hobbit" film trilogy, Thorin is portrayed by Richard Armitage. Balin ( – 2994) was one of the twelve companions of Thorin and Bilbo Baggins on the Quest of