Clooney set to replace Downey Jr
George Clooney will replace Robert Downey Jr in 'Gravity'.
'Iron Man' star Downey Jr had been set to play a small but pivotal in the tale of a female astronaut - to be played by Sandra Bullock - who must find her way back to Earth after her space station is hit by satellite debris, but pulled out in mid-November.
Now Clooney will play the astronaut who survives the space disaster with Bullock's character in the Alfonso Cuaron-directed project, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
The movie has been beset with casting issues for some time. Angelina Jolie passed up the leading role in the sci-fi film, despite being approached twice by bosses.
Natalie Portman was then offered the role by Warner Bros, the studio behind the film with Carey Mulligan, Sandra Bullock, Sienna Miller and Scarlett Johansson also approached or studio tested.
Although Portman was reportedly first choice with the director, sources claim Bullock is popular with Warner Bros. executives as they feel the expensive effects will need a big name to justify the money spent.
The movie is now set to begin filming in spring 2011 after Clooney directs 'Ides of March', the adaptation of the political drama co-starring Ryan Gosling and Paul Giamatti.
