The actor John Rawls (30 DAYS OF NIGHT) will play a role in the Hobbit. But the naming of the role created some confusion.
According to his agency Kathryn Rawlings and Associates John Rawls will be in fact the role of the orc leader to see Azog, killing the grandfather of Thorin Oakenshield. Azog is probably an Uruk-hai, bred by Sauron in the dungeons of Dol Guldur.
Confusing in this announcement is the fact that this role about a year ago even with the wrestler and actor Conan Stevens has been busy. This time Peter Jackson had even personally on his Facebook profile proclaims.
The following possible explanations:
1) There is an error and John Rawls actually plays a different role, perhaps another orc?
2) John Rawls, is "only" the double of Conan Stevens, for example, the action scenes or lighting set up.
3) John Rawls actually plays Azog because Conan Stevens resigned (which is very unlikely).
We turn to the matter and inform you as soon we know more.
PS On the agency side we learn incidentally, also, that the stuntman Steven Davis as "lead stunt double" is on board with the Hobbit.