In what can only be described as the smartest move of his career, aside from starring in Zack Snyder’s 300, Gerard Butler has decided to exit Alcon’s remake of Point Break. The actor was set to take the lead role of Bodhi, who was played by Patrick Swayze in the original. According to The Hollywood Reporter, there were several factors that led to his departure, but I think that we all know the real reason why he won’t be showing up in the film anymore.
Though THR cites scheduling conflicts with London Has Fallen, as well as creative difference as the reason for Butler’s exit, I think that’s just a nice way of saying that he didn’t want to be caught up in what is sounding more and more like a completely unnecessary remake that has very few, if any, redeeming features. I really don’t think that anyone is behind the idea of a Point Break remake, and from what we know about it so far, combined with the cast and crew that are already signed on, things don’t seem too promising. The Internet has not been kind to this one, and I imagine that Butler just wanted to distance himself from it.
Alcon is still hoping to head into production shortly and hopes to recast the role in the coming weeks. No word yet on who they have their eye on, but I’d be surprised if they manage to grab another high-profile actor.
Point Break currently stars Luke Bracey and Ray Winstone, and will be directed by Ericson Core (from a script by Kurt Wimmer). We’ll let you know when we hear more on Butler’s replacement.