Clooney too busy for UN peacekeeping role

George Clooney is stepping down from his role at the United Nations. Photo/AP

George Clooney has resigned from his United Nations peacekeeping role.

The 52-year-old actor, who recently got engaged to British human rights lawyer Amal Alamuddin, has stepped down as "messenger of the peace" because he's too busy.

A United Nations spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, said: "After six years in this role, Mr Clooney feels it is time to retire his official role as messenger of peace.

Image 1 of 9: Amal Alamuddin. Photo / Getty Images

"The competing demands on their time from their professional and advocacy lives sometimes make it difficult for high-profile individuals to carry out a formal United Nations role."

The hunk was given the title in 2008 following his work to raise awareness about the violence in Darfur, Sudan, and during his six years in the role he was able to travel to the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan.

In March 2012, George was arrested, but shortly released, in a protest over the crisis in Sudan, and he also got the chance to meet with President Barack Obama to discuss his concerns about the country.

The news comes after George's parents Nick and Nina confirmed yesterday that he had popped the question to Amal, 36, and they are "thrilled" that he is to tie the knot with a "wonderful young woman".

George was previously married to actress Talia Balsam from 1989 until 1993 and has had a number of high-profile relationships since.

- Bang! Showbiz