Superman Returns star Brandon Routh has been dropped from the movie franchise's sequel - along with director Bryan Singer, according to reports.

A younger Superman will appear in Superman: Man Of Steel - effectively replacing 28-year-old Routh - as the story focuses on the superhero's relationship with fellow DC Comics characters The Justice League.

Moviemaker Singer is "too busy" working on other projects to commit to the sixth movie in the superhero franchise, reports Variety.

It is hoped shooting on Superman: Man Of Steel will begin after the Hollywood writers strike is resolved.

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(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)