This must be great news for all you ”LOTR” and ”Hobbit” fans. Director Peter Jackson just took to his Facebook page to announce that Orlando Bloom is returning to play Legolas in ”The Hobbit”. Here’s his message:

Ten years ago, Orlando Bloom created an iconic character with his portrayal of Legolas. I’m excited to announce today that we’ll be revisiting Middle Earth with him once more. I’m thrilled to be working with Orlando again. Funny thing is, I look older—and he doesn’t! I guess that’s why he makes such a wonderful elf.

”The Hobbit: Part 1” will be released in late 2012 and ”Part 2” will be released in 2013.

The “Rings” prequel’s cast includes Hugo Weaving Cate Blanchett, Elijah Wood, Martin Freeman, Stephen Fry, Lee Pace, Ian McKellan, Leonard Nimoy and Dean O’ Gorman.