Orlando Bloom joins 'Hobbit' cast

AUCKLAND, New Zealand, May 28 (UPI) -- Orlando Bloom has signed on to reprise his "Lord of the Rings" role in the upcoming "Hobbit" films that will shoot in New Zealand, director Peter Jackson said.

Jackson made the announcement on Facebook, calling Bloom's portrayal of the elf Legolas a memorable part of the "Rings" trilogy.

"Ten years ago, Orlando Bloom created an iconic character with his portrayal of Legolas," Jackson said in his posting. "I'm excited to announce today that we'll be revisiting Middle Earth with him once more."

The Hollywood Reporters said Saturday that Legolas, whose character wasn't in the original "Hobbit" novels, helped spur Bloom's career.

Bloom joins "Rings" veterans Ian McKellen, Elijah Wood and Cate Blanchett on the roster of stars committed to the often-delayed, two-picture "Hobbit" series now scheduled for release late next year and in 2013.