Actress Rose McGowan has hit back at "malicious" reports claiming the remake of Barbarella is to be axed, because producers want a more famous star in the lead role. The decision to cast McGowan in the role made famous by Jane Fonda, has faced criticism - because her boyfriend Robert Rodriguez is directing the movie.

It was rumored producers were unhappy with Rodriguez' choice of lead actress, and have threatened to shelve the project unless he re-casts. However the former Charmed star insists there is no truth to the reports, claiming a delay in production is due to a potential actors strike which could hit the film industry later this year.

She tells British magazine Heat, "It (the rumor) was irritating, very malicious and there was no proof."

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(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)