More casting news from The Hobbit has been announced, again by Peter Jackson himself. Stephen Fry, Ryan Gage and Conan Stevens will now venture to Middle Earth. Fry will play The Master of Laketown, the leader of one of the towns Bilbo and the Dwarves encounter on their adventure. Gage will take on the role of Alfrid, The Master’s conniving servant. Finally, Stevens will play the Orc called Azog. Gage was originally set to play a small role as a hobbit, but apparently Jackson liked him so much that he gave him a bigger part.

Jackson gave an update on the production, currently ongoing in New Zealand, saying that the first shooting block will end in three weeks. They will take a short break at this time to do some editing and visual effects work, as well as get ready for “very big scenes coming up.” This accounts for the casting news that’s been happening even as production has started. They’re filling out the roles that appear later on in the shooting schedule. The Hobbit will be broken into two parts. Part 1 is set for December 2012 and Part 2 will come out in December 2013. Hit the jump to read Jackson’s full statement.

Here’s Jackson’s full statement on the matter (via his Facebook page):

Some more HOBBIT casting news today. As we near the end of our first shooting block (we have a break in less than three weeks to get some editing and visual effects work done, plus prepare for very big scenes coming up), we are looking at characters featuring in sequences that take place a little later in the story. 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. The Master’s conniving civil servant, Alfrid will be played by Ryan Gage. Ryan is a great young actor who we originally cast in a small role, but we liked him so much, we promoted him to the much larger Alfrid part. Last, and certainly not least, is Conan Stevens, who will be playing an Orc called Azog (Orcs are never called Roger or Dennis for some strange reason). And yes that’s his name—Conan! Isn’t that cool? Azog is played by Conan! Here’s a photo of Conan and I together… I’m pretty tall, probably at least 6’5″ or 6’6″ I would guess, so that gives you some clue how tall Conan is! You can learn all about him at www.conanstevens.com. Got a busy day’s shooting ahead, so I’m about to jump in the car—but look out for the beginning of the 20 questions answers very soon. Thanks for the questions, many are very insightful. I’ve been through all of them and have a list ready to go. Cheers, Peter J

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Here’s an image Jackson posted of himself and Stevens, side-by-side: