Will Smith Will No Longer Star in Disney's Live Action DUMBO Remake

Last month, it was reported that Will Smith was in discussions to star in Disney's live-action remake of its 1941 animated classic, DUMBO, to be directed by Tim Burton from a script by Ehren Kruger. The film tells the tale of a loveable big-eared elephant.

Today however, Deadline reports that talks between Smith and Disney have broken off due to "the usual reasons" including salary and scheduling.

DUMBO premiered in 1941 and marked the fourth Disney animated feature film. It is based upon the storyline written by Helen Aberson and illustrated by Harold Pearl. In the story, the title character is ridiculed for his big ears, but in fact he is capable of flying by using his ears as wings. Throughout most of the film, his only true friend, aside from his mother, is the mouse, Timothy - a relationship parodying the stereotypical animosity between mice and elephants.

The studio has recently announced a slew of live-action remakes of their animated classics, including a retelling of 101 Dalmations villainess Cruella De Ville, starring Emma Stone. Also on tap for Disney is a new take on the popular Disney theme park attraction Jungle Cruise, starring Dwayne Johnson.

Photo Credit: Walter McBride / WM Photos

To post a comment, you must register and login.