One vampire who was noticeably absent from Monday's New Moon premiere in Los Angeles? Rachelle Lefevre, who stars in the film franchise as evil vampire Victoria.
Though Lefevre appeared in the first and second film installments of the franchise, Bryce Dallas Howard was recast in her role for the upcoming Eclipse, which wrapped production earlier this month in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Lefevre says her red carpet absenteeism comes with good reason.
"2 fans at the premiere: w/ Honey in hospital & being fired from Eclipse tonight was just 2 emotional 4 me & I couldn't manage it," the actress wrote on her Twitter page Monday. "So sorry." (Honey is the actress' dog)
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At the time of her role's recasting in July, Lefevre admitted she was "stunned" by Summit Entertainment's decision, which they said was motivated by scheduling conflicts. Both Eclipse and the actress' new film, Barney's Version, began filming on the same day.
"I was fully committed to the Twilight saga, and to the portrayal of Victoria," Lefevre said. "I turned down several other film opportunities and, in accordance with my contractual rights, accepted only roles that would involve very short shooting schedules.
"My commitment to [indie flick] Barney's Version is only 10 days. Summit picked up my option for Eclipse. Although the production schedule for Eclipse is over three months long, Summit said they had a conflict during those ten days and would not accommodate me. Given the length of filming for Eclipse, never did I fathom I would lose the role over a 10-day overlap," Lefevre continued.
Barney's Version is set for release next year.
