Amy Schumer ‘bummed’ to pull out of Barbie film

Amy Schumer said she is “bummed” to drop out of the upcoming Barbie film.

Schumer, 35, was set to play the iconic children’s doll in a live-action film, but was forced to stand down over “scheduling conflicts”.

In a statement she said: “Sadly, I’m no longer able to commit to Barbie due to scheduling conflicts.

“The film has so much promise, and Sony and Mattel have been great partners. I’m bummed, but look forward to seeing Barbie on the big screen.”

According to Variety, film production was expected to begin in late June, which conflicted with Schumer's promotional tour for Snatched and commitments to She Came to Me.

In December, Schumer defended her casting against “fat shamers” who accused her of being the wrong choice for the role.

The comedian said she is “strong and proud” of who she is and reached out to her critics to offer her “deepest sympathy” and to thank them for “making it so evident that I am a great choice”.

Alongside a picture of herself in a black swimsuit on Instagram she wrote: “Is it fat shaming if you know you're not fat and have zero shame in your game? I don't think so.

“I am strong and proud of how I live my life and say what I mean and fight for what I believe in and I have a blast doing it with the people I love.”

Schumer’s critics also accused toy brand Mattel of “ruining [Barbie’s] image by letting Schumer be Barbie” after it was reported that the actress will star as the doll.

The film is expected to follow a doll living in 'Barbieland' who gets expelled for not being perfect enough and sets off on an adventure in the real world.

It is slated for release in 2018.