Sean Penn pulls out of 'Three Stooges' to focus on family life

Oscar winner Sean Penn has put his Hollywood career on hold.

He's reportedly pulled out of his next two films:  the drama "Carlel" and the Farrelly brothers' "Three Stooges" comedy update with Jim Carrey and Benecio del Toro.

He's said to be taking the time to focus on his family, not his rising career.

But if he can repair the rift in his marriage to Robin Wright Penn ASAP, Sean could still be a Larry to Jim's Curly and Benecio's Mo.

According to a statement to E! from his publicist, Mara Buxbaum, "We indeed informed both productions that Sean was not available now. If for whatever reason the start dates on these productions were to be postponed, Sean would happily remain involved."

To see a photo of Sean, Benecio and Jim in the quirkiest comedy cast in film history, click here.

Penn has broken up and reunited with wife Robin twice over the last 18 months. Recently, there were rumors about a relationship with actress Natalie Portman, but she put the kibosh on that with this statement.

"Sean Penn is a friend and colleague. The reports that we are romantically involved are completely untrue. I normally do not respond to rumors about my private life. However, this repeatedly fabricated story has forced me to do so."

Let's hope Sean's time out will give this long-standing and talented couple the time to work out their issues.

What do you think? Is there hope for Sean's marriage? Will you miss him while he's gone?

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Photo credits: WireImage