Fifty Shades of Grey star Charlie Hunnam drops out

Charlie Hunnam has pulled out of starring as Christian Grey in the film adaptation of the best-seller Fifty Shades of Grey.

Universal, who are producing the film, said the decision was mutual and blamed his busy schedule.

Hunnam is currently filming the American TV series Sons of Anarchy.

Last month the 33-year-old actor said he'd initially turned down the role because of timing issues.

The pressure is on to find a new lead actor, because the film is due for release next August.

Already some bookies have made Ryan Gosling the hot favourite to take on the role.

Dakota Johnson will play Anastasia Steele

Vampire Diaries actor Ian Somerhalder, X-Men star Michael Fassbender and Twilight's Robert Pattison have also been mentioned as possible replacements.

Hunnam was due to star opposite Dakota Johnson, as Anastasia Steel, in the film directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson.

The Fifty Shades trilogy, by author EL James, has sold more than 70 million copies around the world.

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