Lone Ranger Filming Shut Down Over Budget Issues

FIRST PUBLISHED: August 13, 2011 5:29 PM EDT LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- A source close to Walt Disney Studios much-anticipated big-screen adaptation of The Lone Ranger starring Johnny Depp and Armie Hammer says the production has been shut down. The source says those involved are figuring out their next steps, and its possible filming could resume. The source asked to remain anonymous because theyre not authorized to speak publicly about the discussions. The development was first reported in Deadline Hollywood, an entertainment industry news website. It cited difficulties with reducing the movies estimated $250 million cost to $200 million. Jerry Bruckheimer was set to produce the film with a script by Justin Haythe. Hammer was expected to play the title character, and Depp was set to play the Lone Rangers partner, Tonto. The Western was scheduled to be released Dec. 21, 2012. Copyright 2011 by Associated Press. All rights reserved.This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.