Christopher Lee Not Interested In Reprising Saruman Role In Hobbit Sequel

Age is playing a big part in the upcoming installments of “The Hobbit” and the non-existent Hobbit sequel “The Hobbit 2: The Quest for Box Office Gold”. First there was the issue that Ian Holm would simply be too old to play a younger Bilbo Baggins, now it sounds like age might keep Christopher Lee from returning as Saruman:

He [Lee] is adamant that he won’t be appearing in The Hobbit, because as we all know, Saruman isn’t in the book.

But what about the much discussed second film, which would likely deal with the Council of Wizards? That’s a location problem. Lee isn’t interested in filming in New Zealand again because it is simply too far away, for too long of a time. You can hear the tiredness in his voice — and perhaps a bit of regret too.

Seems that Lee would be willing to do the work from his home area, London, if it’d be possible. Can’t say that I’d blame him for not wanting to go to New Zealand, or anywhere away from home and family, for that long of time.

Can Saruman be played by another actor, or is it Lee or nothing?

Source: Cinematical