According to The Hollywood Reporter, Stuart Townsend has left Marvel Comics' movie adaptation of Thor over "creative differences" stated sources close to the production.

Townsend was supposed to play Fandral, an ally of the Norse god Thor. More sources report that he has been replaced by Joshua Dallas.

This casting change comes as production is about to begin. Shooting starts up Monday with Kenneth Branagh.

Townsend, 37, is probably best known as being cast as Aragorn in The Lord of the Rings trilogy but was similarly replaced at the last minute by Viggo Mortensen.

Marvel Studios expands its film universe with a new type of superhero: Thor. This epic adventure spans the Marvel Universe; from present day Earth to the realm of Asgard. At the center of the story is The Mighty Thor, a powerful but arrogant warrior whose reckless actions reignite an ancient war. Thor is cast down to Earth and forced to live among humans as punishment. Once here, Thor learns what it takes to be a true hero when the most dangerous villain of his world sends the darkest forces of Asgard to invade Earth.

Natalie Portman, Anthony Hopkins, Renee Russo and Tom Hiddleston have also been cast in this project.

Thor will come into theaters May 6, 2011.