Kate Hudson replaces Rebel Wilson as female Panda lead in 'Kung Fu Panda 3'

Actress Kate Hudson will replace Rebel Wilson to voice one of the new characters in "Kung Fu Panda 3".

Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Seth Rogen and Dustin Hoffman are among those reprising their roles in the hit franchise telling the tales of Po, the noddle-peddling panda who is also a fabled Dragon Warrior.

J.K. Simmons and Bryan Cranston are among the new additions to the cast.

Wilson was due to voice Mei Mei, a crazy ribbon-dancing panda (the movie series' first female panda lead) who is romantically obsessed with Po.

According to a source, the production schedule became extended, forcing Wilson to bow out. Hudson will now voice Mei Mei, and the previously completed scenes will be re-animated to reflect Hudson's take on the character.

Jennifer Yuh Nelson and Alessandro Carloni are directing the movie, which is scheduled to release on January 29, 2016.

The new storyline sees Po reunited with his long-lost father and he discovers a panda paradise. His newfound happiness is threatened with the emergence of a supernatural villain (Simmons).

This is the first animated voice work for Hudson, who is currently shooting "Mother's Day". Click the Movie button below for more info:
Kung Fu Panda 3