Amy Schumer’s popularity has rocketed in recent years, but the news that she had landed the lead role in the upcoming live-action Barbie movie still came as a surprise. According to the handful of plot details which have been revealed, it’ll be set in a land of “perfect” women, following Schumer’s character as she’s expelled into our world for not fitting in there in what would then be a fish out of water type scenario.
It certainly sounds pretty intriguing and the prospect of Schumer playing a live-action Barbie trying to find her place definitely had the potential to deliver some big laughs, even though no one is quite sure about the creative direction it’ll take in regards to whether the movie is aimed mainly at adults, children, or both.
Well, regardless of all that, it’s now been revealed that Schumer has been forced to depart Barbie due to scheduling issues. Here’s what she had to say about it earlier today:
“Sadly, I’m no longer able to commit to Barbie due to scheduling conflicts. The film has so much promise, and Sony and Mattel have been great partners. I’m bummed, but look forward to seeing Barbie on the big screen.”
Apparently, Schumer will be too busy with Snatched to start shooting Barbie on time and Sony was unable to delay the production start date because Mattel has a lot of big (and specifically timed) merchandising plans in the works. As of right now, it’s still set to be released on June 29th, 2018.
We’ll probably never know if this excuse is genuine, but the hunt for a new leading lady is already taking place despite the lack of a director. Schumer did at least polish the screenplay before this split, though it’s currently unknown whether or not Barbie will retain that or undergo some changes. Either way, we’ll keep you posted as we learn more.