Taylor Lautner is a perfect example of how beneficial fitness regimes can be.

Although the 16-year-old’s status in New Moon remained questionable just a few weeks ago, word finally came today that Lautner will indeed be in the Twilight sequel. Apparently the extra time he spent at the gym really paid off.

The long-awaited announcement from director Chris Weitz was posted on Stephenie Meyer’s web site.

I’m very happy to announce that Taylor Lautner will be playing Jacob Black in New Moon and that he’s doing so with the enthusiastic support of Summit Entertainment, the producers, and Stephenie Meyer.

The characters in Stephenie’s books go through extraordinary changes of circumstance and also appearance; so it is not surprising that there has been speculation about whether the same actor would portray a character who changes in so many surprising ways throughout the series. But it was my first instinct that Taylor was, is, and should be Jacob, and that the books would be best served by the actor who is emotionally right for the part. I think that fans of Twilight the book and the movie will be surprised by the Jacob Black that Taylor will bring to the screen in New Moon; and I’m looking forward to working with him and the rest of the cast in realizing the film.

very best

Chris Weitz:

Meyer - Twilight‘s author - also went on to add a message of her own:

I’d just like to add that I was very much a part of this decision. My first priority was always what was best for New Moon—what was going to give us the best possible movie. I’m truly thrilled that Taylor was the one who proved to the director, to Summit, and to me that he is the best possible Jacob we could have. And I’m very much looking forward to seeing what he’s going to bring to Jacob’s character this year.

Phew! I’m so glad we have that issue settled now!