We have a new Christian Grey -- almost. Just under two weeks ago, Charlie Hunnam dropped out, and now U.K.-based actor Jamie Dornan is in final negotiations to replace him for the film adaptation of Fifty Shades of Grey.
Many media outlets are reporting today that Dornan is close to signing the deal, but nothing has been confirmed yet.
The Hollywood Reporter is one site that confirms Dornan’s role in the film. They report that he was contacted even before it was official that Hunnam had dropped out. On Friday, he tested opposite Dakota Johnson (who will play Anastasia Steele) in front of director Sam Taylor-Johnson, author EL James and producers Michael De Lucaand Dana Brunetti.
The process of replacing Hunnam just had to be quick, as Universal wanted to start production on Nov. 1 to ensure a Aug. 1, 2014 release date.
Dornan, who dated actress Keira Knightley for two years, is perhaps best known for his role on ABC’s Once Upon a Time but his film credits include Marie Antoinette. He was also a Calvin Klein model, Daily News reports.
Meanwhile, Hunnam said at an event this week, “I have had some family stuff going on so just trying to stay focused and stay positive and keep trying to do a good job at work and be with my family and stay positive.”
image: Wikimedia Commons
