Billy Connolly has been cast as Dwarf warrior Dain Ironfoot in Peter Jackson’s ‘Hobbit’ films, and is possibly the last person to join the ensemble of ‘The Lord of the Ring’ prequels, Slashfilm is reporting. Since the character only has a small part in ‘The Hobbit’ novel, and shooting is already underway, it’s unknown if Connolly will appear in both prequel movies.

Dain is the second cousin of Thorin Oakenshield, played by Richard Armitage. Thorin gathers the company that recruits Bilbo Baggins, portrayed by Martin Freeman, for a quest to reclaim his family’s ancient treasure from Smaug, played by Benedict Cumberbatch, a winged worm. Dain plays a part in the climactic Battle of Fire Armies at the end of the novel, which suggests he’ll only be seen in the second sequel, ‘There and Back Again.’

Of Connelly’s casting, Jackson said he couldn’t think of a more fitting actor to play Dain. “With (Billy) stepping into the role, the cast of ‘The Hobbit’ is no complete,” the filmmaker added.

Written by: Karen Benardello