Efron bows out of 'Footloose' remake

LOS ANGELES, March 24 (UPI) -- U.S. actor Zac Efron will not be starring in a big-screen musical version of "Footloose" as planned, a Paramount Pictures representative said.

Efron, who has appeared in the three "High School Musical" hits, as well as the movie musical version of "Hairspray," reportedly was attached to the upcoming "Footloose" remake for the past two years.

"'Footloose' is a project we've longed to see re-booted for a new generation. While Zac is no longer attached, we remain excited and committed to the collective brain trust of (director) Kenny Ortega, (and producers) Neil Meron and Craig Zaden, who will reinvigorate the franchise," a Paramount Pictures representative told Usmagazine.com Monday. "Their fresh take on the film will undoubtedly be filled with the same kind of breakout performances that we've come to expect from them."

Usmagazine.com said Efron, 21, has not publicly explained why he decided not to star in the film, but is understood to be looking to act in a variety of different roles so as not to be typecast.