Vanessa Hudgens won't be starring in 'New Moon'

Hudgen, 20, who shot to fame in Disney's High School Musical movie franchise, auditioned for the role of werewolf Leah Clearwater, People reported.

Screenwriter Melissa Rosenberg, who wrote both films based on the novels by Stephenie Meyer, says it's unlikely the Vanessa will be starring in New Moon.

I'm not sure about [final] casting but I had heard Vanessa Hudgens was going up for the part of Leah, Rosenberg said. But at the moment, the part of Leah doesn't happen until the third movie.

Taylor Lautner will be back as Jacob Black. I can tell you the original cast will all be coming back. They're on set right now, in Vancouver! They're all up there prepping the movie to start shooting very soon, Melissa added.

Twilight will also be getting a new director; Chris Weitz who will replace the first film's director, Catherine Hardwicke.

Chris Weitz directed The Golden Compass, which was a beautiful-looking film, she tells People magazine. And I think it's wonderful we have someone who has worked with CGI animals ... that will be a big part of New Moon. I'm delighted we have someone who's so expert at that.

Robert Pattinson, Kristen Stewart and Taylor Lautner are all confirmed for New Moon.

New Moon is expected to be released November 20, 2009.

Teen star Dakota Fanning is said to be in the running to play Volturi vampire Jane.