ALMOST two years since being announced as the actor who will play the titular role in the action-fantasy film “Pedro Penduko,” James Reid has decided to withdraw from the highly-anticipated project.
As it turns out, James Reid has suffered a spinal injury, which required his team to pull out him of the project – citing the rigid requirements such as the intensive training and major stunts as main factors that would affect his therapy and treatment.
“Viva Films regretfully announces that it has accepted the withdrawal of James Reid from the movie ‘Pedro Penduko’ for medical reasons,” read the official statement released by VIVA through Pikapika.ph.
While the Idol Philippines judge proved his dedication and commitment in the project after going through different pieces of training in parkour, martial arts, and martial arts weaponry, his medical condition simply wouldn’t allow him to push through with the project.
“James has spinal injuries and the film ‘Pedro Penduko’ involves intensive training and major stunts. His regular therapy and treatment prohibit him to train hard or perform for the rigid requirements,” the statement added.
“James has spent over a year training and getting ready for this film and Viva truly appreciates his dedication and commitment to this project. Viva respects James decision and wishes him a speedy recovery,” the statement continued.
But fans are in for some treat as James Reid will star alongside his real-life girlfriend Nadine Lustre in the remake of hit 2011 Korean film “Spellbound (My Girlfriend Can See Ghosts),” which starred Son Ye-jin and Lee Min-ki.
“In the works is a reunion movie with Nadine Lustre. It will be a remake of the hit Korean movie, Spellbound,” VIVA wrote in the statement.
Meanwhile, VIVA has yet to announce who would replace James Reid as “Pedro Penduko.” (Push)
