Andy Lau Turns Down Iron Man 3 Role

Just last month, Electroshadow reported that Hong Kong actor Andy Lau had been added to the cast of the blockbuster superhero sequel “Iron Man 3″. Turns out he’s not going to be in it after all. Bummer.

Today, Latino Review broke the news that Lau has officially declined to appear in the film. This is apparently based on a report in Chinese newspaper Want China Times. Lau had previously been in final talks to play a small but significant role as a businessman friend of Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr), who helps him during a visit to China. As a major A-list star in Asia, Lau was to represent a major point of interest for mainland Chinese investors, who’re partially financing the Marvel Studios production. The part is still in the movie, just that it won’t be with him in it anymore.

So why did he turn down such a major opportunity? The report says that it’s due to Lau’s wife, Malaysian Carol Chu, having just given birth to their baby girl. Lau had previously been embroiled in controversy, where his wife’s family accused him of not being around for her. The couple just only tied the knot not too long ago. So it looks like Lau has decided to put his domestic life ahead of his career for a change.

Other Chinese actors are currently being sought for the role. Top contenders include Chen Daoming (“Hero”) and Wu Xiubo (“The Assassins”). From these names, it’s clear that Marvel is looking for slightly older actors, to match Robert Downey Jr. Casting is also underway for younger Chinese actresses, though it’s unknown what the role(s) would be. Fan Bingbing is reportedly in final talks for one of them.

The production of “Iron Man 3″ won’t move to China until later this summer, so there’s still time for Lau’s replacement to be found. Shooting is now taking place in Wilmington, North Carolina under the direction of Shane Black (“Kiss Kiss Bang Bang”).