Surprise, surprise: Filming of “Fifty Shades of Grey” has been pushed back to Dec. 2, The Hollywood Reporter wrote Monday. The film was said to still be on schedule even after Charlie Hunnam abruptly quit the title role, and producers had to scramble to find replacement Jamie Dornan. Producer Michael De Luca said co-star Dakota Johnson helped the “Fifty Shades” team sift through potential actors for Christian Grey.

“Fifty Shades" fans, who revolted against Hunnam, were generally pleased with Dornan's casting. The only problem -- filming is delayed about a month, which means it’s unlikely “Fifty Shades of Grey” will be able to meet its proclaimed Aug. 1, 2014, release date.

The summer of 2014 will mark two years since the “Fifty Shades" sensation erupted, so pushing the film back could risk fading fan interest. But by now “Fifty Shades” has all its essential players: Dornan as Grey, Johnson as Anastasia Steele, “True Blood” star Luke Grimes as Elliot Grey, Christian’s older brother, and Jennifer Ehle as Anastasia’s mother. Fans are still waiting to see who will play Ana’s best friend Kate and Mrs. Robinson.

Sam Taylor-Johnson is set to direct the project whose script was originally written by Kelly Marcel. Before Hunnam left the film, Patrick Marber, who is known for his work on “Notes on a Scandal,” was brought into the project to polish the script.

The film is based on E.L. James’ best-selling novel that captivated readers with its leading characters Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele. The sadistic billionaire falls in love with the young college student, and brings readers into a world of BDSM, love and money.

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