Liam Neeson will not take part in an upcoming production because he is still grieving the loss of his wife, Natasha Richardson, who died almost a year ago.
The actress died after falling while skiing at Mont Tremblant, Quebec in March 2009.
Neeson had signed on to star with Jeremy Irons in the next film by Scottish director Norman Stone on Saint Colomban, the monk who brought Christianity to Scotland.
Director Norman Stone told Starpulse, "It has been a difficult time for Liam. I think he would have been great in the film. We wanted him to play the part of King Aidan, who has fiery clashes with Columba (played by Irons). It would’ve been great to see him alongside Jeremy."
Stone added, "The script was with him for several months and I understand he loved it. He has decided not to go ahead, which is a pity, but the decision was made after what has been a difficult time for him and I respect the circumstances. He is a truly great actor."
Liam Neeson can be seen in Clash of the Titans coming out on March 26. Chloe, the Atom Egoyan film that Neeson was making when his wife had her accident, is also being released on March 26.