’50 Shades Of Grey’ Movie Cast: ‘Vampire Diaries’ Star Ian Somerhalder Never In Running For Christian Grey; Was Charlie Hunnam E.L. James’ First Choice?

“Fifty Shades Of Grey” fans are still in shock over the movie casting news for Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele. Author E.L. James made the announcement via Twitter on Monday, Sep. 2, revealing to readers worldwide that “Sons of Anarchy” star Charlie Hunnam and Dakota Johnson of “Ben & Kate” would be bringing the kinky characters to life. But was Charlie Hunnam her first choice for Christian Grey?

According to Bret Easton Ellis, writer of “The Canyons,” E.L. James had someone else in mind … Robert Pattinson! And that’s not all -- despite all the Christian Grey fan frenzy surrounding “Vampire Diaries” star Ian Somerhalder, the 34-year-old actor reportedly never stood a chance to get the role. “White Collar” star Matt Bomer, who was also said to be a contender for the part, was also said to never have been considered for Grey.

Ellis’ reveal on Twitter came as a shock to Ian Somerhalder fans because the “Vampire Diaries” actor was for a long time considered a frontrunner for the highly coveted role. James even fueled rumors of his potential casting as Christian Grey in February when she responded to a Twitter fan page that posted a masked Somerhalder with a line from “50 Shades.” “All I can see of his face is his beautiful chiseled mouth and strong jaw,” read the caption of the photo. James had responded to the photo with a smiley face.

Bret Easton Ellis dished to Refinery 29 in mid-August that he knew the actor that James was hoping to cast as Christian Grey … but refused to reveal the name. He did however explain that “she is never going to get him.”

“He has dark hair. Of course, that’s what she wants,” Ellis teased. “Okay, I can say this: Think of the most obvious, fitting choice. It’s right in front of your face. I can’t say anything.”

We now know that Ellis was hinting towards “Twilight” star Robert Pattison – and it all makes sense! As “50 Shades Of Grey” readers know, the book is actually “Twilight” fan fiction.

Are you happy with Charlie Hunnam’s casting as Christian Grey? Let us know in the comments section and check out Bret Easton Ellis’ tweets below: