The upcoming film adaptation of Wuthering Heights has been thrown into chaos after Natalie Portman left the project.
The Star Wars actress was signed on to star as Cathy Earnshaw in the big screen adaptation of Emily Bronte's classic novel - and her exit has stunned the film's bosses as she reportedly went out of her way to secure the part. An insider told the Daily Mail, "It's fair to say we were seduced by her and we should have been on our guard."
Her exit has left the film's bosses reeling days before they were due to head to to Cannes to sell their movie. However, a spokesperson for HanWay films insists they will have a replacement for Portman "within days". The film company would not comment on Portman's decision to walk out on the movie.
Expect Sienna Miller and Keira Knightley, who were both linked to the role in the past, to be in the frame again to play the doomed heroine.
Girl With a Pearl Earring's Olivia Hetreed will write the screenplay, while The Edge of Love's John Maybury will direct.