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Movie studios Universal Pictures and Focus Features said in a statement that his “immersive TV schedule” of acting in Sons of Anarchy would interfere with the Christian Grey role.

But according to the Hollywood Reporter, Hunnam became overwhelmed with all the attention from the movie.

Fans expressed disappointment in the casting choice, as they favored Ryan Gosling or Robert Pattison in the role of the sadistic tycoon.

Actress Dakota Johnson, 23, is still on to play female lead Anastasia Steele. 

Reach Executive Producer Anne Artley here.