AceShowbiz - Orlando Bloom has withdrawn from a string of performances of play "Killer Joe" due to a conflict with his filming schedule.

The "Lord of the Rings" actor has been portraying Joe Cooper, a policeman who moonlights as a contract killer, in the revival of Tracy Letts' 1993 play of the same name since it opened for previews at London's Trafalgar Studios on May 18.

On Wednesday, June 13, ticketing companies sent out emails to ticketholders notifying them that Orlando would no longer be performing in the show for 16 dates, and he will be replaced by James Groom.

The producers issued a statement to WENN explaining that his filming schedule was to blame.

"When we cast Orlando Bloom in this production he was already attached to an undated film project which has now confirmed its production schedule," they said. "As a result, Orlando will not be performing in 'Killer Joe' on certain select dates when James Groom, his understudy, will play the title role."

It was not specified what production Orlando would be filming, but his upcoming projects include TV series "Carnival Row", war drama "The Outpost" and sci-fi flick "Needle in a Timestack".

The dates affected by Orlando's film schedule are between 20 and 23 June and for a week between 14 and 21 July.

A spokesperson for ticketing company London Theatre Direct extended apologies on behalf of the producers for "any inconvenience and disappointment" and have offered fans the opportunity to rebook for an alternative date if they want to see the British star.

"Killer Joe", which also stars "Kingsman" star Sophie Cookson and "Harry Potter" actor Steffan Rhodri, runs until August 18.