Twentieth Century Fox has pushed back the opening of X-Men Origins: Wolverine, which had been slated for its South American premiere in Mexico City on Wednesday.

The film’s Aussie star, Hugh Jackman, had been due in Mexico for the premiere.

“We were not only concerned about Hugh’s welfare and we would never send anyone into harm’s way but we also have an enormous office filled with people we care about,” a Fox spokesperson said.

“There was no point in proceeding under the current conditions.”

The Mexican government has shut down movie theatres as it grapples with the disease.

“There is a possibility it could be rescheduled,” the spokesperson said.

“Hugh is obviously beloved there so we’ll see what happens. We’ll monitor the situation.”