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
Early American editions of The Hobbit this is "not" the order the maps appear, but, rather, the order stated in the List of Illustrations. In all first editions the Wilderland map appears as the front paste-down. ††Earliest confirmed date as seen in publisher's records, owner's inscriptions, or library stamps. Tolkien began work on "The Lord of the Rings" in the years after "The Hobbit's" publication. As the story evolved, Tolkien realized he needed to change how Bilbo and Gollum interacted in "The Hobbit" to suit the plot of "The Lord of the Rings". Allen & Unwin prepared a new edition of "The Hobbit" for release in