Potential ‘Hobbit’ Role For Damien Echols

Damien Echols, recently released from prison after 17 years behind bars, is set to begin writing his memoir, which is scheduled for a September 2012 publication. Echols, along with Jessie Misskelley, Jr. and Jason Baldwin – collectively known as the “West Memphis Three” – was tried and found guilty of the murders of three young boys; he received the death sentence, despite his assertions of innocence. For years, celebrities and other public figures have campaigned for the release of the West Memphis Three – including director Peter Jackson and his partner, Fran Walsh. Echols, who is currently in New Zealand with his wife, is said to be talking with Jackson in regards to a small role in ‘The Hobbit.’