Brad Pitt won't Play

Nov 23, 2007, 11:30 GMT

11/11/2007 - Brad Pitt - "Beowolf" London Premiere - Arrivals - Vue Cinema Leicester Square - London, England © Solarpix / PR Photos

Brad Pitt has pulled out of political thriller 'State of Play' because he was unhappy with the script.

The 'Ocean's Thirteen' star was due to play reporter Cal McCaffrey in the Hollywood remake of the BBC drama series, but after several meetings with director Kevin Macdonald they have been unable to resolve Pitt's concerns.

Universal pictures said: "Brad Pitt has left the Universal Pictures production of 'State of Play'. We remain committed to this project and to the filmmakers, cast members, crew and others who are also involved in making the movie. We reserve all rights in this matter."

Pitt was to star alongside Edward Norton, Dame Helen Mirren, Rachel McAdams, Jason Bateman and Robin Wright Penn in the Matthew Michael Carnahan scripted adaptation of the British TV show.

McCaffrey - the role played by British actor John Simm in the BBC version - is a political consultant-turned-journalist who heads a newspaper's murder investigation involving a fast-rising politician, played by Norton.

Universal are now looking for someone to replace Pitt and are said to be considering Russell Crowe and Johnny Depp.

Filming on Depp's latest movie 'Shantaram' has just been postponed by Warner Bros. due to the ongoing Hollywood writers' strikes.

Sources also claim the studio is considering its legal options and may sue Pitt for dropping out at the last minute.

(C) BANG Media International