Viggo Mortensen drops out of 'Snow White'

Viggo Mortensen has reportedly dropped out of negotiations to play the male lead in Universal's upcoming film Snow White and the Huntsman.

Mortensen had long been rumoured for the part of the titular Huntsman, but according to The Hollywood Reporter, the studio could not afford Mortensen's demands for both an $8 million salary and gross participation.

Recent rumours suggested that Zack Snyder is interested in having Mortensen portray the lead villain in his Superman reboot, and the actor's departure from Snow White would logistically allow this to happen.

Despite reports of the actor joining the cast of Superman: The Man of Steel, Snyder has so far officially denied that Mortensen is under consideration for a role in the film.

Kristen Stewart and Charlize Theron are still set to star in Snow White and the Huntsman, although there has been no word on whether the original December 2012 release date will change following Mortensen's departure.

Other actors previously believed to have been considered for the film's male lead include Johnny Depp and Tom Hardy.