Tobey Maguire NOT In Talks to Play Bilbo Baggins

Despite report that CAA and producers of 'The Hobbit' were in negotiations for the actor to take the lead role, his publicist has debunked the rumor by saying 'This is false!'

It seems that Tobey Maguire will not be seen putting off his Spider-Man costume to play in "The Hobbit". Shortly after there was report that he was in talks to be Bilbo Baggins in the upcoming Guillermo del Toro-directed movie, his publicist Kelly Bush exclusively told Movieline the rumor "is false".

News that Maguire might be seen as the lead star in the adventure film was first brought into attention by Latino Review. On Monday, December 14, the site reported, during a press junket for "Brothers", the 34-year-old actor said he would work with del Toro for his next project.

Later, the site claimed they have confirmed to agency sources that CAA and the producers of "The Hobbit" were in early stages of talks for Maguire to take the lead role. However, it was noted that he had not been cast and an offer had not been made.

Widely known for his role as Peter Parker/Spider-Man in "Spider-Man" film franchise, Tobey Maguire is set to return to the next installment of the superhero movie, "Spider-Man 4". He has also been attached to star as the major character in 2010 drama "The Crusaders".

As for "The Hobbit", it will re-create the scenes of the novel, with additional events that make an impact to "The Lords of the Rings", such as the expulsion of Sauron from Mirkwood by The White Council. The first of the adventure fantasy movie is scheduled for December 2011 U.S. release, while the second film, "The Hobbit 2", is expected to hit theaters a year later.