Woody Allen reportedly says he fully understands Kate Winslet's decision to pull out of appearing in his next film just three weeks before filming was due to start.

The Daily Mail says that while other people connected to the film have criticised Winslet for pulling out, Allen has written her a note to say he remains a fan and hopes they will work together in the future.

He has now cast Scarlett Johansson for the film, his first to be shot in London.

Winslet pulled out of the film because she said her schedule gave her no time to be with her family.

The paper says the note reads: "Please don't lose any sleep over this. Life is full of real problems; this is merely a showbiz one."

Source: Press Release