Cohen, Russell leave 'Django' cast

NEW ORLEANS, May 11 (UPI) -- Sacha Baron Cohen and Kurt Russell have dropped out of Quentin Tarantino's 19th century-set American drama, "Django Unchained."

The New Orleans Times-Picayune said the actors were to play small roles in the film, but, as of this week, are no longer attached to the project, which is being shot in New Orleans through June.

Cohen said on Howard Stern's satellite radio show the "Django" shooting conflicted with his publicity duties for his movie, "The Dictator."

No reason has been reported for Russell's exit, the Times-Picayune said.

The news comes after the departures of cast members Kevin Costner and Joseph Gordon-Levitt were confirmed.

"Django Unchained" stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz, Kerry Washington and Samuel L. Jackson. It is set for a Christmas release.

Tarantino's other films include "Reservoir Dogs," "Pulp Fiction," "Jackie Brown," "Kill Bill" and "Inglourious Basterds."