Will Smith turns down Independence Day sequel

Will Smith has reportedly bowed out of talks to star in a sequel to his hit 1996 blockbuster Independence Day.

Director Roland Emmerich revealed in September (13) that the Men In Black actor had expressed an interest in reprising his role as fighter pilot Captain Steven Hiller after previously opposing the idea, but it appears Smith has had another change of heart and has now decided not to return to the sci-fi franchise, reports Deadline.com.

The follow-up will be set 20 years on from the original alien invasion, when the extra-terrestrials' reinforcements from outer space finally arrive.

Bill Pullman and Jeff Goldblum have already been confirmed for the project, which movie bosses plan to release in time for Independence Day in 2016 to mark the 20th anniversary of the original film.