Twilight Director Not Returning for Sequel

Catherine Hardwicke delivered the biggest opening weekend ever for a female film director—not to mention Robert Pattinson to the screaming fans—but it doesn't look like she'll be getting the chance to top that record with the next Twilight film.

The helmer has parted ways with the series. The story broke today on the blog Deadline Hollywood Daily, and by Sunday night Variety had a statement from the director.

"I am sorry that due to timing I will not have the opportunity to direct New Moon," said Hardwicke. "Directing Twilight has been one of the great experiences of my life, and I am grateful to the fans for their passionate support of the film. I wish everyone at Summit the best with the sequel—it is a great story."

So it is. Considering all the elements that went into the film—a successful series of novels, an attractive cast and, of course, teen vampirism—does this seem like a decision that might put the series in jeopardy, or is it just par for the course in Hollywood

(Originally published Dec. 7, 2008 at 6:14 p.m. PT.)