Monaghan joins X-Men prequel

Dominic Monaghan is set to return to his adopted 'Lord of the Rings' home, New Zealand, after signing up to join the all-star cast of 'X-Men' spin-off 'Wolverine'.

The British actor will play the electrifying Barnell in the new movie, which stars Hugh Jackman, Live Shreiber and Ryan Reynolds.

Monaghan's casting comes just days after Black Eyed Peas star Will.i.am announced he'd be taking part in the sci-fi action prequel.

The hip-hop star/producer is still coming to terms with the role. He tells MTV News: "That's cool! I don't mean to toot my own flute, but toot-a-toot-toot!"

He will play teleporting mutant John Wraith, aka Kestrel, in the new film.