"Watchmen" star Malin Akerman is replacing Lindsay Lohan in "Inferno," the story of porn star Linda Lovelace, E! News reports.

Writer-director Matthew Wilder confirms the casting, telling E!, "We are currently in negotiations and working out the legalities of bringing her on board."

After months of waiting for Lindsay Lohan to wrap up her legal issues, Wilder announced he was withdrawing the offer from her.

"We have stuck by Lindsay very patiently for a long time with a lot of love and support," Wilder told E!. "Ultimately, the impossibility of insuring her - and some other issues - have made it impossible for us to go forward."

Some online reports - citing sources close to the actress - said Lohan, 24, quit the film to focus on her court-ordered rehab for drug addiction.

But Lohan's rep told E! the decision was mutual: "Lindsay is dedicated to her recovery and together they decided to move forward without her."

The "Mean Girls" star is expected to be in rehab until at least Jan. 3.

Wilder says "Inferno" will begin shooting early next year.

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