London (ANI): Actor John Rhys-Davies has turned down the offer to star in the prequel to the Lord of the Rings trilogy, The Hobbit. The star, who played grumpy dwarf Gimli in the original trilogy, was offered to play the role of his father Gloin in the next flick.

However, he has refused to do it claiming he can no longer undergo the extensive and often painful make-up process. “I"ve already been asked and to be honest with you I wouldn"t. I have already completely ruled it out," the Daily Express quoted him as saying.

He added: “There"s a sentimental part of me that would love to be involved again. Really I am not sure my face can take that sort of punishment any more." However, Sir Ian McKellen will reprise the role of wizard Gandalf in The Hobbit.