Sean Penn is taking a break from his movie career - the Oscar winner has pulled out of his next two film projects.

The star has quit his upcoming role in action picture Cartel and scrapped plans to work alongside Benicio Del Toro and Jim Carrey in The Three Stooges.

Penn, who recently reconciled with wife Robin Wright Penn after their second split in 18 months, is rumoured to be taking time out to spend more time with his partner and their two teenage children.

The actor's publicist Mara Buxbaum confirmed the news to E! Online, "We indeed informed both productions that Sean was not available now. If for whatever reason the start dates on these productions were to be postponed, Sean would happily remain involved."