Kate Hudson to replace Rebel Wilson in 'Kung Fu Panda 3'

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 5 (UPI) -- Kate Hudson is replacing Rebel Wilson in the vocal cast of the animated adventure Kung Fu Panda 3, which is set for release Jan. 29.

The Hollywood Reporter said Wilson was slated to play Mei Mei, the first female panda lead in the franchise opposite Jack Black's Po, however Wilson was forced to drop out when the sequel's schedule was extended and caused a conflict with another film shoot.

Fortunately, Hudson was available to take over the voice job, which marks her first performance in an animated movie.

The third installment in the film series will feature franchise regulars Angelina Jolie, Seth Rogen and Dustin Hoffman, as well as Kung Fu Panda newcomers J.K. Simmons and Bryan Cranston.

The movie is being directed by Jennifer Yuh Nelson and Alessandro Carloni.