"I was stunned by Summit's decision to recast the role of Victoria for ‘Eclipse,'" Rachelle said in a statement to Access Hollywood.

On Tuesday, Summit announced that Bryce Dallas Howard would be taking on the role in "Eclipse," due in May 2010.

"I was fully committed to the ‘Twilight' saga, and to the portrayal of Victoria," Rachelle continued, explaining the turn of events that led to the casting change. "I turned down several other film opportunities and, in accordance with my contractual rights, accepted only roles that would involve very short shooting schedules. My commitment to ‘Barney's Version' is only ten days. Summit picked up my option for ‘Eclipse.' Although the production schedule for ‘Eclipse' is over three months long, Summit said they had a conflict during those ten days and would not accommodate me. Given the length of filming for ‘Eclipse,' never did I fathom I would lose the role over a 10 day overlap. I was happy with my contract with Summit and was fully prepared to continue to honor it. Summit chose simply to recast the part."

The star concluded her statement with a regretful tone.

"I am greatly saddened that I will not get to complete my portrayal of Victoria for the ‘Twilight' audience. This is a story, a theatrical journey and a character that I truly love and about which I am very passionate. I will be forever grateful to the fan support and loyalty I've received since being cast for this role, and I am hurt deeply by Summit's surprising decision to move on without me. I wish the cast and crew of ‘Eclipse' only the very best," she said.

/Lilja