Back in April, we brought you the news when Chinese superstar, Andy Lau (Shaolin, Maang taam) entered into final negotiations to portray a scientist and old friend of Tony Starks in director Shane Black‘s forthcoming installment of Marvel Studios‘ wildly successful Iron Man franchise, opposite Robert Downey Jr., Guy Pearce and Ben Kingsley.

Now, WantChinaTimes is reporting that Lau has turned down the role in Iron Man 3. The cause for the actor rejecting the part, is said to be due to his desire to spend time with his newborn daughter.

Iron Man 3 is slated to hit theaters on May 3rd, 2013.