Rachelle Lefevre's axe shock

Friday, 31 July 2009

Rachelle Lefevre was "stunned" to learn she had been replaced in the 'Twilight' franchise.

The actress, who played villainous vampire Victoria was shocked to learn that Bryce Dallas Howard is taking over her role in third movie 'Eclipse', insisted she was "fully committed" to the role, despite scheduling difficulties.

She said: "My commitment to 'Barney's Version' is only ten days. Summit picked up my option for 'Eclipse'... Given the length of filming for 'Eclipse', never did I fathom I would lose the role over a ten-day overlap.

"I was happy with my contract with Summit and was fully prepared to continue to honour it. Summit chose simply to recast the part... I am hurt deeply by Summit's surprising decision to move on without me. I wish the cast and crew of 'Eclipse' only the very best.

"I am greatly saddened that I will not get to complete my portrayal of Victoria for the 'Twilight' audience. This is a story, a theatrical journey and a character that I truly love and about which I am very passionate. I will be forever grateful to the fan support and loyalty I've received."

Summit entertainment have hit back at Rachelle's claims, blasting her "lack of co-operative spirit" in not informing them of her other commitments.

They released a statement saying: "It was not until July 20 that Summit was first informed of Ms. Lefevre's commitment to 'Barney's Version', a commitment we have since been advised she accepted in early June.

"We feel that her choice to withhold her scheduling conflict information from us can be viewed as a lack of co-operative spirit which affected the entire production... Ms. Lefevre took a role in the other film that places her in Europe during the required rehearsal time, and at least ten days of 'Eclipse's principal photography.

"This period is essential for both rehearsal time with the cast, and for filming at key locations that are only available during the initial part of production.

"The fact remains that Ms. Lefevre's commitment to the other project - which she chose to withhold from Summit until the last possible moment - makes her unfortunately unavailable to perform the role of Victoria."

Rachelle will still appear in 'New Moon', the second movie in the series.