Richard Dreyfuss will not appear at an upcoming Jaws cast reunion event in Burbank, California, the actor announced this week, less than a week before the scheduled date.
Dreyfuss had been set to attend the Hollywood Show fan convention on May 30, according to Deadline. In a statement posted to Instagram, he said the cancellation was not his choice.
"To all the incredible fans, my JAWS cast family, and everyone involved in making this reunion possible — I want to share how deeply grateful I am for the love and excitement surrounding this special event," he wrote. "It truly breaks my heart that I won't be able to attend the reunion at The Hollywood Show May 29th & 30th. Please know this was never the outcome I hoped for. Due to circumstances completely beyond my control, it has become impossible for me to be there in person."
Dreyfuss did not provide a specific reason for the cancellation. He did express support for the other cast members who will be at the event. "My heart is absolutely with my fellow cast members who will be attending. Sharing this journey with them has been one of the greatest blessings of my life, and I know they'll make this celebration unforgettable," he wrote.
He also addressed fans directly. "To the fans — thank you for carrying this story with you through the years. Your passion, kindness, and support have meant more than words can ever properly express. The connection we've shared through the years is something I will always treasure."
This is not the first time Dreyfuss has had to cancel a Jaws-related public appearance. He pulled out of SharkCon last summer after being hospitalized with viral bronchitis.
Still attending the Hollywood Show reunion will be Jeffrey Kramer, Carla Hogendyk, Steven Searle and Jonathan Searle, Ted Grossman, Carl Gottlieb, Greg Dole, production designer Joe Alves, Designing Jaws author Dennis Prince, and concept poster artist Robert Tanenbaum.
Jaws was released June 20, 1975, and is widely credited with launching the modern summer blockbuster. The film celebrated its 50th anniversary last year with theatrical re-releases and an exhibition at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.
