Poof! Hugh Jackman Disappears from Broadway-Bound Houdini Musical

And just like that…Poof! The great "Hugh-dini" has disappeared!

Sorry, ladies. Hollywood heavyweight Hugh Jackman has dropped out of the in-the-works Broadway show Houdini, a bio-musical of the famed magician which will feature a score by Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin) and direction by Jack O’Brien.

“I have greatly enjoyed the collaborative process on Houdini," Jackman said in a statement. “Ultimately, though, I wasn’t able to commit to the time this role will require. I have tremendous respect and admiration for the creative team and I wish everyone the best. I know they’re well on their way to making something extraordinary.”

Jackman joins a long list of artists who have left the project, which was first announced by producers Scott Sanders and David Rockwell in April 2008. Past creatives who have departed include original composer Danny Elfman, original lyricist David Yazbek, original librettist Kurt Andersen and replacement librettist Aaron Sorkin. No new librettist has been announced for the project since Sorkin’s exit.

Who should play the great Houdini now? Suggest your top picks in the comments section below!