Peter Jackson has announed via Facebook that Stephen Fry will star in The Hobbit.
The British comedian joins new stars Ryan Gage and Conan Steven, who were also welcomed by the director.
Jackson wrote: "We are thrilled to confirm that Stephen Fry will be playing The Master of Laketown. I’ve known Stephen for several years, and we’re developing a Dambusters movie together. In addition to his writing skills, he’s a terrific actor and will create a very memorable Master for us."
A nevous, greedy type, The Master of Laketown rules an outpost that serves as a trading post between men, Elves and Dwarves.
Gage, will play Alfrid, the Master'’s underhanded civil servant, with Steven taking on the role of an Orc named Azgog.
Martin Freeman plays lead character Bilbo Baggins, with a host of Lord of the Rings cast members returning for the prequels.
The first part of The Hobbit, An Unexpected Journey, will be released in time for Christmas, 2012.