Neeson won't appear in 'Hangover' sequel

LOS ANGELES, April 11 (UPI) -- Actor Liam Neeson's cameo has been cut from "The Hangover 2" because his busy schedule didn't allow for reshoots, the comedy's director said.

Mel Gibson was initially supposed to appear in the film, but the cast balked because of the controversial movie star's alleged politically incorrect remarks and domestic violence against his ex-girlfriend.

Neeson then took Gibson's place and played a Bangkok tattoo artist in the movie.

People.com said Neeson was replaced after "Hangover" director Todd Phillips decided to cut a scene following Neeson's cameo, then reshoot the "Schindler's List" and "Taken" actor's scene. Neeson, however, was already working on another project, so Phillips replaced him with actor/director Nick Cassavetes.

"We were in a complete time crunch, so I called Nick and asked if he would do the part," Phillips told Variety. "He came in and crushed it, and that is the scene that you will ultimately see in the film. ... It turned out great."

The film is set for release May 26.