Troubled Hollywood star ROBERT DOWNEY, JR's latest drugs bust has cost him the lead role in the sequel to steamy thriller, BASIC INSTINCT.

The critically-acclaimed actor, who is battling a cocaine addiction, was set to play devious psychiatrist, ANDREW GLASS, in the follow-up. Downey, currently starring in TV smash-hit, ALLY McBEAL, had discussed the project with cinema sex siren SHARON STONE, her manager and the film's producers.

His recent bust means the deal if off - causing the actor to miss out on $7.5 million (£5 million). A source says, "All they talked about was BASIC INSTINCT 2. Sharon was delighted. She thought they'd be incredible - but he's blown it big time." The film will be released next year (01). (RGS/WNTST/PDD)

Source: WENN