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Steven Spielberg has quit his role as artistic adviser to the Beijing Olympics in protest at China's lack of action over the humanitarian crisis in Darfur.
The Jurassic Park director claimed his "conscience" had forced him to re-assess his priorities and revealed he would be focusing instead on helping bring to an end the problems in Sudan.
He told Variety: "I find that my conscience will not allow me to continue with business as usual.
"At this point, my time and energy must be spent not on Olympic ceremonies but doing all I can to help bring an end to the unspeakable crimes against humanity that continue to be committed in Darfur.
"Sudan's government bears the bulk of the responsibility for these ongoing crimes, but the international community, and particularly China, should be doing more to end the continuing suffering there.
"China's economic, military and diplomatic ties to the government of Sudan continue to provide it with the opportunity and obligation to press for change."
Spielberg sent a letter to Chinese President Hu Jintao requesting further action in Darfur last spring.
His departure is expected to prompt other officials to reconsider their roles in the Games.
