'Twilight: Eclipse' Exclusive: Bryce Dallas Howard is NOT dating Robert Pattinson

Bryce Dallas Howard is not, we repeat, not, romantically involved with her "Eclipse" costar, Robert Pattinson.

At least, that's what she told The Dish Rag exclusively on Wednesday (Dec. 16).

Howard is the latest newcomer to the "Twilight Saga," replacing Rachel Lefevre as the vampire Victoria for the third movie, due out in June 2010.

There was a lot of controversy and uproar among Twihards about the recasting amidst rumors of unfairness, contract and timing issues.

Bryce says she doesn't really understand all the whys and wherefores. All she knows is that "Eclipse" is her favorite book of the series and that everyone on the set has been "really really really kind."

"Obviously, it was a really unfortunate circumstance and I'm not even really, honestly, really privy to exactly what happened," Bryce admits. "But everyone, they want the best for the film and because we all care about these characters so much and that kind of camaraderie is a crucial element to us all doing our best."

So as the new girl in the mix we might as well address the rumors before they even getting officially started. Are she and co-star Robert Pattinson madly in love yet?

Bryce laughs, "I'm 28 and I felt like the old lady on the film. I kept saying [to friends' that 'He's such a great kid' and they're, 'He's not a kid. He's 24!s"

But the wife and new mom (her baby looks like Opie, she says) assured us that the "Twilight" actors' friendships are "really, really genuine. I think you can feel that when you see the films."

Oh, we definitely can.

Bryce Dallas Howard's latest film, "The Loss of a Teardrop Earring," based on a lost Tennessee Williams' screenplay, will be in theatres December 2009 in limited release.

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