J.K. Simmons and Michael Keaton leave Kong: Skull Island

J.K. Simmons and Michael Keaton have left 'Kong: Skull Island'.

A change in the filming schedule means that neither of the Hollywood stars will be able to appear in the eagerly-awaited new movie, which recently had its production date pushed back towards the end of the year.

Although Tom Hiddleston remains on board with the movie, Simmons and Keaton won't not be able to play their intended roles, meaning the studio is now busily trying to find two new performers to fill the void, Deadline reports.

However, there is no word yet as to who the movie studio is considering to replace the pair.

Keaton, 63, is starring in the child-abuse drama 'Spotlight' and also recently voiced a role in Illumination Entertainment's 'Minions'.

Simmons, meanwhile, has a number of projects currently in the pipeline, including 'The Accountant' and 'Kung Fu Panda 3'.

'Kong: Skull Island' promises to immerse its audience in the world of the iconic ape - which is one of cinema's most recognisable figures - and the studio will be hoping it can replicate the success of the recent 'Jurassic Park' reboot.

The King Kong-inspired movie will be released in 3D and IMAX 3D in March 2017.