Keira Knightley will not appear in the next "Pirates of the Caribbean" film. The 23-year-old actress - who starred as Elizabeth Swann in the first three movies in the hit Disney franchise - loved working on the films but insists the time is right to pursue new projects.

She said: "It was a completely fantastic experience, and it was an amazingly large portion of my life, but I don't think I need to go there again. I think that it's done."

Despite her decision not to reprise her role, Keira - who starred alongside Johnny Depp and Orlando Bloom - can't wait to see the upcoming installment.

She said: "I'm very excited to see the next one. And Johnny is so wonderful as Captain Jack Sparrow . I think it'll be wonderful."

Keira is not the only star to rule herself out of the swashbuckling sequel - Russell Brand recently admitted he will not be appearing.

The British comedian had been in the running to play the brother of Johnny's character, but doesn't have the time to commit to the project.

He said: "There's been some talk of doing a 'Pirates' movie. But, I've got eight other things to do including 'Get Him To The Greek' with Judd Apatow. So I don't know if there'll be time to be a pirate, I've got enough of that in my private life. I think it's a possibility but I am rather busy."