The fourth instalment of the franchise, for which Universal scheduled a July 2011 release, is in limbo.
Director Paul Greengrass chose to back out of the project, and still, Matt Damon’s participation has not been officially confirmed, reports Variety.
"Jason Bourne existed before me and will continue, and I hope to remain involved in some capacity as the series moves on," Greengrass said in a statement.
While sources reported that there was a conflict between the director and the studio, the director explained there have been no disputes, and that his decision is simply due to the fact that he needs take on something new. He added that he still supports the franchise.
Greengrass worked on another film titled Green Zone with Matt Damon, which opens in theatres on March 12.
In addition, screenwriter George Nolfi, who was set to write the fourth instalment, also withdrew to direct his first film, The Adjustment Bureau, also starring Damon. There was word that Nolfi could serve as Greengrass’s replacement in directing the next Bourne sequel.
Tony Gilroy, who penned the first three film scripts of the franchise, is also rumoured to act as director, although nothing has been decided.
In the meantime, we can see Matt Damon star in Invictus on December 11.