Rainn Wilson drops social media star from new project after backlash

Funnyman Rainn Wilson has dropped Internet star Curtis Lepore from his new scripted series after receiving backlash from fans appalled by the fact he had recruited a man involved in a rape case.

The Office star is producing Hollywood and Vine, featuring a group of social media celebrities, and just days after naming his cast, he has been forced to scrap plans to work with Lepore.

In a statement on his Facebook.com page, Wilson writes, "After much consideration, the decision was made with Curtis Lepore to mutually part ways on (website) SoulPancake’s television project featuring Vine stars.

"We felt this was the best decision for everyone involved. We wish Curtis all the best in all his future endeavors."

Lepore's former girlfriend, Jessi Vazquez, claimed the Vine star had raped her. The case was settled out of court in a plea deal.