Transformers 3 Megan Fox will not be starring in

"Megan Fox will not be starring in 'Transformers 3'," reps for the actress, 24, tell PEOPLE. "It was her decision not to return. She wishes the franchise the best."

Citing unnamed sources, Variety reports the studio and the film's director, Michael Bay, intend to cast another actress as star Shia LaBeouf's love interest to move the story in a different direction.

Shooting for the film, slated for a July 2011 release, is expected to kick off this summer in locations across the U.S.

Fox, meanwhile, is prepping for the June 18 release of "Jonah Hex," an action film she stars in opposite Josh Brolin, John Malkovich and Will Arnett.

Fox told People magazine it was her decision to quit. Other reports indicate that Bay fired Fox for making critical comments about the films.

One thing is clear: Whatever you think of the Transformers franchise, Fox’s departure translates into a casting vacancy that would guarantee worldwide exposure for the actress who takes over the role delivering action and eye candy for the franchise.

Here are a few contenders:

Olivia Wilde — if she has time. The ex-House star, next appearing in TRON: Legacy has been cast in Cowboys & Aliens from Iron Man 2 director Jon Favreau.

British actress Gemma Arterton. She survived Clash of the Titans and picks up additional steam next week when Prince of Persia opens.

Evangeline Lilly (above, middle). The freckled Canadian told David Letterman she’s more interested in writing than acting now that Lost is in the can. However, the athletic actress could clearly hold up her end of any action scene.

Mila Kunis (above, right). She already delivered sexy action hijinks in The Book of Eli but Transformers would give the Russian-born spitfire an international platform.

Avatar star Zoe Saldana. Showing fierce chops in The Losers, Saldana proved she could remain watchable even when surrounded by goofy car chases and explosions.

What’s your take? Who have we missed? Which actresses are best qualified to fill Ms. Fox’s high heels? Weigh in below.



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