Rob Kazinsky drops out of THE HOBBIT

Rob Kazinsky has had to leave The Hobbit production. Peter Jackson made the announcement via his Facebook page:

I am sad to report that Rob Kazinsky, who was cast in the role of Fili, is having to leave The Hobbit and return home, for personal reasons. Rob has been terrific to work with and his enthusiasm and infectious sense of humour will be missed by all of us. 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. I'll keep everyone posted with updates as they come.

Here is what Kazinsky said via Twitter: 

“Thanks for all your support, Peter and team have been the most wonderful and supportive team to work for and it’s with a truly sad heart that things have turned out this way. The Hobbit will go on to be as great as I’ve seen and I will miss the family and friends that i’ve here, From every disaster i’ve tried to make an opportunity."

Fili is a fun-loving dwarf, one of the youngest in the company. He and his brother Kili are the ones that get sent out to explore while the rest of the company is on their adventure. He loves to eat and is a hard worker. He and his brother fight in the battle of the five armies, trying to protect their uncle Thorin. For all the details on his character click here. 

We will keep you posted on who Jackson casts as a replacement for Fili. What are your thoughts on this news? Who do you think should be cast in the role?