Keanu Reeves passes on AKIRA role

Keanu Reeves has decided to pass on the role in Akira that he was in talks for two weeks ago. Albert Hughes is directing the live-action adaptation. Earlier we reported that Reeves was up up for the role of Kaneda, a member of a biker gang in a cyberpunk dystopia.

Warner Bros. recently responded to allegations that the film was in trouble by saying:

"Production on 'Akira' has not halted or been shut down as the film has not yet been greenlit and is still very much in the development stage. The exploratory process is crucial to a project of this magnitude, and we will continue to sculpt our approach to making the best possible film."

47 Ronin is the next film for Reeves, which arrives in  theaters on November 21, 2012. Then fans will be treated to another Bill & Ted film, which Reeves is attached to return.  I know that there was a lot of uproar about whitewashing when this was announced. I just hope that they find someone that can lead that fans are happy with and who can be a draw for international box office.

What are your thoughts on this news?