Stephen Chow Says Ciao to "The Green Hornet"

Hong Kong comedian Stephen Chow, who became popular for his Shaolin Soccer and Kung Fu Hustle films, has stated that he will not be directing the Hollywood adaptation of The Green Hornet. He is also in doubt to fill the role of Kato, a martial artist in the original television show who was made famous by Bruce Lee.

According to the Associated Press, Chow's main reason to leave the Columbia Pictures' project was his desire to work on an original superhero comedy with Jack Black. "If I direct 'The Green Hornet,' the superhero comedy will have to wait two years," Chow said. "And I want to make a movie based on an original idea."

As a remake of the 1966 ABC television series, The Green Hornet does not present Chow the original idea for which he is looking. The series even goes as far back as 1936, when the story about a newspaper publisher who tackles crime at night with his expert martial arts sidekick debuted on the radio in Detroit.

The comedian may still be part of the movie, however, as he did not confirm whether he will play Kato. Chow has stated that his participation in the film will depend on his schedule.

Before Chow's sudden decision, Columbia Pictures had stated that the new version of The Green Hornet will premiere in 2010. The date hasn't changed yet since Columbia Pictures has provided no comments in the matter.