Emma Stone reveals why she turned down all-female Ghostbusters

The Amazing Spider-Man star was wary of the 'commitment' of a franchise

Emma Stone was wanted for Ghostbusters by original star Bill Murray (Getty Images)

Emma Stone has revealed that she turned down a lead role in the all-female Ghostbusters reboot because she has had enough of franchises.

The US actress was handpicked by original Ghostbusters star Bill Murray for a main part but although the script was "really funny", the timing sadly was not right.

"A franchise is a big commitment," Stone told the Wall Street Journal. "I think maybe I need a minute before I dive back into that water."

Stone starred as Gwen Stacy in The Amazing Spider-Man and its sequel and will next be seen in her second Woody Allen film Irrational Man.

The news that she had passed up Ghostbusters broke during the Sony Pictures hack when a string of private emails were leaked - an incident Stone describes as "horrible".

Fortunately Ghostbusters now has a stellar line-up, with Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, Kate McKinnon and Leslie Jones playing the ghoul fighters.

Best of all, Thor actor Chris Hemsworth will be playing their receptionist and the ever wonderful Paul Feig is directing.

You can see Ghostbusters in cinemas from 22 July next year.