Why doesn't Jackson direct them himself? He doesn't have any other projects lined up.
And besides, he kinda needs something to boost his resume after King Kong and The Lovely Bones...
"Peter has and has had obligations and commitments to other films that would make it impossible for him to direct The Hobbit at this time, even if it was offered, which it hasn't been," Kamins told me. "I've been quietly working on setting up a film for him to direct while Guillermo would have been directing The Hobbit. What you saw in their respective statements must be taken at face value. All of that said, Peter and Fran's commitment to The Hobbit is total and they will do everything necessary to protect the franchise and the investment made by New Line, Warners and MGM."
No way this is hitting December 2012 now. At the earliest, we're looking at 2013. If that.
Jackson met studio representatives yesterday to begin the search for a new director but wouldnt rule out directing The Hobbit himself if a suitable person could not be found.
If thats what I have to do to protect Warner Bros investment, then obviously thats one angle which Ill explore, he said. But stepping in as director would be difficult as he had signed writer and director contracts with Hollywood studios for two other films, with one likely to begin next year. The other studios may not let me out of the contracts.
Jackson said November was now the earliest start date for shooting, but it depended on finding the right director. I just dont know now until we get a new director. The key thing is that we dont intend to shut the project down.
We dont intend to let this affect the progress. Everybody, including the studio, wants to see things carry on as per normal. The idea is to make it as smooth a transition as we can.
I guess Del Toro will do Hellboy 3 now
Why doesn't Jackson direct them himself? He doesn't have any other projects lined up.
And besides, he kinda needs something to boost his resume after King Kong and The Lovely Bones...

I doubt Burton will direct, at least I hope not.
I guess Del Toro will do Hellboy 3 now