Lefevre is replaced in Eclipse

Eclipse gets a new Victoria.

According to the source, Rachelle Lefevre, 30, who played villain Victoria in both Twilight and upcoming New Moon, will not return to the screens in Eclipse, the third installment of the franchise.

The actress will be replaced by the 28-year-old Bryce Dallas Howard (Spider-Man 3, Terminator Salvation).

The switch is due to scheduling conflicts as Lefevre is going to shoot her indie movie Barney’s Version in Quebec the same time Eclipse will start shooting in Vancouver.

Rachelle said in her statement to Access Hollywood:

I was stunned by Summit [Entertainment]’s decision to recast the role of Victoria for Eclipse. I was fully committed to the Twilight saga, and to the portrayal of Victoria. I turned down several other film opportunities and, in accordance with my contractual rights, accepted only roles that would involve very short shooting schedules. My commitment to Barney’s Version is only ten days. Summit picked up my option for Eclipse.

Although the production schedule for Eclipse is over three months long, Summit said they had a conflict during those ten days and would not accommodate me. Given the length of filming for Eclipse, never did I fathom I would lose the role over a 10 day overlap. I was happy with my contract with Summit and was fully prepared to continue to honor it. Summit chose simply to recast the part.

I am greatly saddened that I will not get to complete my portrayal of Victoria for the Twilight audience. This is a story, a theatrical journey and a character that I truly love and about which I am very passionate. I will be forever grateful to the fan support and loyalty I’ve received since being cast for this role, and I am hurt deeply by Summit’s surprising decision to move on without me. I wish the cast and crew of Eclipse only the very best.”

The Eclipse filming starts on August 17, 2009.

YOUR THOUGHTS, will Howard be a good Victoria?

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1. Annabel Says:
   January 9th, 2010 at 5:48 am

   Rachel was amazing and fit the part incredibly! But i think this Bryce girl is going to surprise us… I think she’s going to be a good Victoria. However, Rachel played the part soo well it’s going to be hard to beat her… ;) Good Luck Bryce!!!

2. Janie Z Says:
   March 21st, 2010 at 7:24 am

   Ah man I can’t believe they r gonna replace her she was my favorite.

3. Janie Z Says:
   March 21st, 2010 at 7:25 am

   I really thought she was so cool and beautiful, well life goes on and good luck in your future work.

4. Gabriel Says:
   June 30th, 2010 at 2:22 am

   Clearly, they just wanted an excuse to replace Rachelle with an actress who has a “bigger name” in the industry. That’s showbiz.