Aug 15, 2012 10:58 AM EST

Kristen Stewart Not Part of Snow White and the Huntsman Sequel?

Could Kristen Stewart and Rupert Sanders' affair be causing some casting backlash? One might think so, after Universal has decided to scrap a "Snow White and the Huntsman" sequel and go with a film that focuses only on the Huntsman, played by Chris Hemsworth.

"The studio is currently exploring options to continue the franchise," said a Universal spokeswoman.

"Snow White and the Huntsman" grossed $389.2 million worldwide, a modest amount of money. If the scandal isn't what got the studio to rethink a sequel, it could be the large salary that Stewart commands.

A new writer is currently being sought out, and they hope to begin filming in July. There is no official word on whether or not Sanders would return to the project.

Update

As of 3:30 EST a spokeperson for Universal Studios has issued the following statement -- "We are extremely proud of Snow White And The Huntsman and we're currently exploring all options to continue the franchise. Any reports that Kristen Stewart has been dropped are false."