Martin Freeman Turns Down Bilbo?

New reports are indicating that Martin Freeman was forced to turn down the offered lead role of Bilbo Baggins in the Hobbit films. According to The Sun, the role was offered by Peter Jackson and MGM but Freeman was forced to turn it down as he had already committed to 20 weeks of filming the second season of Sherlock for the BBC (fantastic show, recommend highly).

A source said: "It was one of the most difficult decisions of his career. MGM, who are making the film, only got a formal offer over in the last couple of weeks. It was too late for Martin because he had already signed up for another series of Sherlock. It was agonising but he had no other choice. All the actors had to read four pages of script to camera which is being shown to Peter Jackson. He is looking for a hidden gem now Martin has ruled himself out of the job."

None of this has been confirmed from official sources however. Another reason given for turning it down is the continued limbo the movies are in due to MGM. Of course this also means that Freeman might be available to do the role if Sherlock finishes filming before MGM sorts out its mess and the official green light is given. After having seen his work in Sherlock, I hope this story is true and the schedule conflict can get worked out. (via One Ring)