Charlie Hunnam pulls out of 50 Shades of Grey

The role of male chauvinist of the century, Christian Grey, is once again up for grabs as Charlie Hunnam departs the film version of Fifty Shades of Grey.

The Sons of Anarchy star claimed the highly sought-after role back in September but a newly released statement by the studio claims “The filmmakers of FIFTY SHADES OF GREY and Charlie Hunnam have agreed to find another male lead given Hunnam’s immersive TV schedule which is not allowing him time to adequately prepare for the role of Christian Grey.”

The rumour mill suggests Hunnam’s departure was not due to scheduling conflicts but rather cold feet about playing the billionaire S&M-loving Grey, who has become the fantasy for housewives around the world.

Fifty Shades of Grey author E L James, whose trilogy stemmed from Twilight fan fiction, tweeted (while likely rolling around in her Scrooge McDuck money cave) that she wished Charlie all the best.

Dakota Johnson remains with the film as Anastasia Steele, now awaiting her new Christian Grey. Will fan-favourite Matt Bomer (White Collar) be a much-welcomed replacement?