Sony Officially Cancels ‘The Interview’ Release in Light of Terror Threats

According to Deadline, Sony has officially decided to pull controversial movie 'The Interview,' starring James Franco and Seth Rogen, from theaters in light of possible terror threats that have since emerged. The film was originally slated for a Dec. 25 release, but once most major movie theater chains decided against showing the movie, Sony ultimately decided to cancel its release altogether.

Sony released a statement explaining their decision, citing their understanding that the theaters chose not to show ‘The Interview’ in an attempt to protect movie-goers from any possible harm. You can read Sony's statement in full below (via Deadline):

“In light of the decision by the majority of our exhibitors not to show the film The Interview, we have decided not to move forward with the planned December 25 theatrical release. We respect and understand our partners’ decision and, of course, completely share their paramount interest in the safety of employees and theater-goers.

Sony Pictures has been the victim of an unprecedented criminal assault against our employees, our customers, and our business. Those who attacked us stole ourintellectual property, private emails, and sensitive and proprietary material, and sought to destroy our spirit and our morale – all apparently to thwart the release of a movie they did not like. We are deeply saddened at this brazen effort to suppress the distribution of a movie, and in the process do damage to our company, our employees, and the American public. We stand by our filmmakers and their right to free expression and are extremely disappointed by this outcome.”

The decision comes less than 24 hours after the Department of Homeland Security made an official statement that there was no conclusive evidence pointing to an ongoing plot against U.S. movie theaters. The New York City premiere was canceled before the movie was officially pulled nationally.

See Celebs Like Seth Rogen + More Who Married Non-Famous People!