Renowned director Chen Kaige has found a new actor to play Mei Lanfang's cousin in his biopic of the late Peking opera master.

Pan Yueming has been confirmed to join the star-heavy cast, which includes Leon Lai, Zhang Ziyi, Gillian Chung and Japanese actor Masanobu Ando.

Pan Yueming, 33, will take on the minor role after veteran actor Feng Yuanzheng quit shortly before filming began earlier this month.

Feng Yuanzheng claimed he had to leave because filming Mei Lanfang clashed with his busy schedule. However, rumors suggest the star considered he was not paid enough.

Pan Yueming is known for his performances in the 2002 film Life Show and the small-screen adaptation of Lin Yutang's novel Moment in Peking in 2005.
 
(CRI.cn July 25, 2007)