Fans of Hong Kong actor Tony Leung won’t be able to see him in the upcoming “Battle of Red Cliffs” as the star has decided not to appear in the film.

Sina Web site said the film’s director John Woo confirmed the Cannes Best Actor winner will not play Zhu Geliang, a legendary military strategist* in the ancient Three Kingdoms period, in the film.

Leung reportedly said the plot was attractive, but the six-month-long shoot was longer than he expected.

Rumors* say the star may take the break to concentrate* on his relationship with fellow actress Carina Lau. Some suspect he wants to take a rest after finishing shooting Ang Lee’s “Lust, Caution.”

No comments were available from Leung’s agent.

In the wake of the star’s withdrawal*, heartthrob* Takeshi Kaneshiro will take over the role and join the star-heavy cast, including Chow Yun-fat, Taiwan supermodel Lin Chi-ling, and mainland actress Zhao Wei.

“Battle of Red Cliffs” will begin shooting later this month, and is expected to premiere* next year.

(SD-Agencies)