Elizabeth Banks No Longer Directing Pitch Perfect 3

 

Report has it that Elizabeth Banks has backed out of directing duties for Pitch Perfect 3. Banks, who took point at the helm for Pitch Perfect 2 and made her directorial debut in the process, remains attached to the lucrative musical franchise as producer and will still reprise her role of Gail, one part of Universal’s irreverent commentating team opposite John Michael Higgins.

The report didn’t disclose an exact reason for the decision, though it’s believed that the actress’ stacked schedule was the overriding factor. Not only does Banks’ current slate feature a villainious role in Lionsgate’s Power Rangers movie but there’s also the small matter of directing a re-do of Charlie’s Angels. The former of which is due to bow in March of next year.

With recent setbacks Anna Kendrick, Brittany Snow and Rebel Wilson are all on board to return as key members of the Barden Bellas in late 2017. Kay Cannon, meanwhile, is currently drafting up a screenplay for the musical sequel, which is hoping to one-up Pitch Perfect 2‘s international haul of $285 million.