Sir Ian McKellen's Gandalf return

(BANG) - Sir Ian McKellen will reprise his role as Gandalf in 'The Hobbit'.

The 69-year-old actor played the wizard in the 'Lord of the Rings' trilogy and has finally confirmed he will take on the role again in the forthcoming prequel.

He said: "Well, I haven't had the contract yet but it's everyone's intention that I play Gandalf so yes, I will be returning to the role. Although it's not until 2010, I'm very much excited about returning."

Ian admitted he was happy to take on the role again, even though Guillermo Del Torohas taken over from Peter Jackson as director.

He added: "If you're not going to have Peter Jackson, who else can handle the job? To get an international film-maker of his standing who adores the original trilogy, I don't think you could possibly find a better replacement.

"I think the look will be very much as it was, it's still the same workshops, the same designers, I'll be there, Andy Serkis will be there and Peter Jackson will still be around - not that he'll interfere too much - so it'll seem like the old family is getting back together again."

(C) BANG Media International