Updated

Michael Morris has fallen out of directing "Songbyrd," one of E!‘s first two scripted pilots. 

Morris, who previously directed seven episodes of NBC’s "Smash," was to reunite with "Smash" executive producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron, who executive produce the music-themed "Songbyrd" that centers on songwriter Lauren Byrd (Bethany Joy Lenz), a character loosely inspired by hitmaker Diane Warren, and her staff. 

The move comes amid controversy surrounding photos released on Tuesday of Morris, a married father of three, kissing "Smash" star Katharine McPhee. Ironically, Morris’ most recent credit is directing the second episode of ABC’s new drama "Betrayal," which chronicles an extramarital affair.

Click here for more news from Deadline.

More On This...