'Creative powers' keep Stephen Chow from wielding kung fu strokes in 'Green Hornet'

It seems Stephen Chow Sing-chi has now completely dropped out of participating in the Hollywood remake of The Green Hornet. A casting call has just gone out for a new Kato in Los Angeles casting rounds. A note is now circulating on film industry blog Spoiler TV seeking: '[KATO] ALL ASIAN ETHNICITIES, Male, 20s to early 40s. Brit Reid's manservant/chauffeur by day and Green Hornet's martial arts-skilled sidekick by night. Actor doesn't have to have martial arts experience.'

That certainly sounds like Chow is toast. Originally, the Kung Fu Hustle star was hired by Sony to direct the picture in addition to co-starring with Seth Rogen (Knocked Up) in the title role. But the old 'creative differences' started creeping in and Chow relinquished his directing position a few months ago - with loopy Michel Gondry (Be Kind Rewind) rumoured to take over. Now, it appears the differences are severe enough for Chow to kiss the project goodbye.

What's interesting is that the producers are now expanding their search to include actors who aren't martial artists. Considering the original character was played by Bruce Lee, the kung-fu fighting is surely taking a backseat to more comedy and action - or they're hiring choreographer Yuen Wo-ping to give everyone a Matrix makeover.