“The Hobbit” can’t seem to catch a break, with delayed production starts, directors leaving the project and location issues, it seems like “The Hobbit” is running into more problems. The latest from New Zealand: Peter Jackson needs a new Fili.

Rob Kazinsky, who played Fili, according to Peter Jackson’s Facebook, has left the project due to “personal reasons”. Jackson does not cite any particular reasons on why he has left “The Hobbit” but continues to support Kazinsky decision, commends his work ethic, enthusiasm and sense of humor. But according to his Twitter account the 27-year-old “EastEnders” star states his departure is due to “health reasons”.

Kazinsky has yet to shot any scenes as the dwarf, Fili, and his withdrawal from “The Hobbit” will not affect the production. Jackson states, “I should say that Rob’s departure will not affect ongoing filming of The Hobbit, nor will it impact work done to date, as we had yet to film much of Fili’s storyline. At the moment we are shooting scenes featuring Bilbo without the Dwarves, which will give us time to find a new Fili.”

The character of Fili is one of the thirteen dwarves who accompany Billbo on his journey to defeat the dragon Smaug. “The Hobbit” comes out in theaters in December 2012 in 3D.

Source: Peter Jackson’s Facebook (via HitFix.com)

What do you think of Rob Kazinsky’s departure? Will “The Hobbit” ever get made? Post your thoughts in the comment section below.

by Rudie Obias