Balin is a major character in The Hobbit by JRR Tolkien and Peter Jackson's film trilogy of the same name and a posthumous character in The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring and its adaptations. He is the older brother of Dwalin and cousin of Oin and Gloin.
He is portrayed by Ken Stott, who is known for portraying John Rebus in the titular television series.
Books
The Hobbit
Balin is the second dwarf to appear at Bag End and greet Bilbo Baggins.
The Fellowship of the Ring
It is revealed that Balin led an expedition of dwarves, Ori and Oin included, to reclaim the long-lost city of Moria. However, he was killed by orcs and given a tomb. The Fellowship, while passing through, discovered Balin's tomb.
Films
The Hobbit (1977)
Balin was voiced by Don Messick. Out of all the dwarves, Balin is one of the few to speak. His role remains pretty much the same in the film.
The Hobbit trilogy
In Peter Jackson's adaptation for The Hobbit, Ken Stott portrayed Balin in all three films.
The Fellowship of the Ring
Like the book, the Fellowship discover Balin's tomb and is later smash by a cave troll.
Personality
Balin is one of Thorin's oldest friends and companions, and closest friends growing up (other than Dwalin). He was very fond of his brother, Dwalin, shown when they both laugh when they see each other's presence and bonk heads together. During the course of the journey, Balin forms a friendship with the company's burglar, Bilbo Baggins, and often teaches the hobbit about Dwarf culture.
