Fry, currently on New Zealand screens in 'QI', will play the Master of Laketown.
Two other new cast members were also announced on Jackson's Facebook page today: Ryan Gage will play "conniving civil servant, Alfrid" and Conan Stevens will play an Orc called Azog, Stuff reports.
The film's production team were nearing the end of their first shooting block and preparing to do some editing and visual work done on the film, Jackson said.
"We are thrilled to confirm that Stephen Fry will be playing The Master of Laketown.
''In addition to his writing skills, he's a terrific actor and will create a very memorable Master for us."
Other stars appearing in 'The Hobbit' include Sir Ian Holm as the older Bilbo Baggins, Sir Ian McKellen as Gandalf, Andy Serkis as Gollum, and Orlando Bloom as Legolas.
