50 Cent Replaces Forest Whitaker In Sylvester Stallone's "Expendables"

March 19, 2009 9:22 a.m. EST

Los Angeles, CA (CNS) - Rapper 50 Cent has been added to Sylvester Stallone's upcoming all-star cast film "The Expendables." He will replace Oscar winner Forest Whitaker for the part.

Whitaker was previously announced to join the action-packed film, but due to delays that have put back the shooting by a month, he had to drop out due to scheduling conflicts with his prior engagements.

According to Sly's letter sent to AintItCool.com, though there are some who are displeased over 50 Cent's taking over the role, he's sticking with the decision.

He wrote, "Trust me, the change of Forest Whitaker to 50 Cent AKA Curtis Jackson is a good one."

"Nobody wanted Eric Roberts over Ben Kingsley, but I believe it's a vastly improved cast. The point is, you either believe in me and the project, setting your personal feelings aside, or you take a darker approach, which really serves no purpose since your insight and suggestions and overall are a great thrill for me to behold everyday I sign on."

Stallone, who wrote and will direct the film, is starring in the project, which focuses on a group of mercenaries heading to South America to overthrow a ruthless dictator. Jason Statham, Jet Li, Randy Couture, Dolph Lundgren, Eric Roberts, Charisma Carpenter, Steve Austin, and Mickey Rourke will also star.

Sly's pal Arnold Schwarzenegger will appear in a cameo role.

Shooting will begin in Brazil later this month.