Paula Patton
Actress Paula Patton won't return to her "Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol" role in the upcoming fifth movie in the franchise. Reuters

It looks like the creative minds behind the upcoming film “Mission Impossible 5” will need to find yet another female lead for the popular action franchise. It's been confirmed that neither Maggie Q nor Paula Patton will reprise their roles from “Mission Impossible III” or “Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol” respectively.

The news comes on the heels of a Twitter Q&A done by “Mission Impossible 5” director Christopher McQuarrie. While it’s been previously confirmed that Cruise, Jeremy Renner, Simpon Pegg and Ving Rhames will all return for the fifth movie, Patton won’t be returning -- despite the last film leaving the door open for her character to return in the future.

Apparently, the 39-year-old actress was busy with other projects to film “Mission Impossible 5.” She’s set to play a character in the upcoming adaptation of Blizzard Entertainment’s hit video game “Warcraft.” Luckily, it looks like someone has already volunteered to take over in the new film. CinemaBlend notes Rebecca Ferguson of “Hercules” was recently cast. It’s unclear at this time exactly who the 31-year-old Sweedish actress will play because almost nothing about the movie is known.

Despite being set for a July 31 release, the film has yet to release a trailer, plot synopsis or even an official title. As SlashFilm reports, Paramount moved the movie from a December release date to the summer, likely in order to keep it from going head-to-head with J.J. Abrams’ “Star Wars: the Force Awakens,” which promises to dominate the box office that month whether it’s good or bad.

Still, during his Q&A, the director revealed that patient fans will be rewarded very soon. Although he didn’t give a concrete date, fans can expect some information about the movie to come their way literally any day now.

Those excited for MI5 will have to wait to see exactly how and why the “Ghost Protocol” crew will team up again to take down a new villain, played by Sean Harris. Are you excited for the “Mission Impossible 5” trailer reveal? Tweet your thoughts to @TylerMcCarthy.

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