Robert Pattinson Was Favourite To Play Christian Grey, Claims Writer

Robert Pattinson was the 'first choice' to play Christian Grey in the movie adaptation of EL James' hit novel 50 Shades of Grey, according to the writer's friend and fellow author, Bret Easton Ellis

Robert Pattinson was the 'first choice' to play Christian Grey in the movie adaptation of EL James' hit novel 50 Shades of Grey, according to the writer's friend and fellow author, Bret Easton Ellis.

The controversial author who penned bestsellers including American Psycho and The Rules of Attraction took to his Twitter account after yesterday's 50 Shades casting news, which revealed that Sons of Anarchy actor Charlie Hunnam would play the domineering Christian Grey.

'Talked to E.L. James at a party over the summer: her first choice for Christian was Rob Pattinson and Matt Bomer was never in the running,' Ellis posted to his followers.

Ellis also tweeted a follow-up confirming his earlier story, writing:

'E.L. James and I were at Rob Pattinson's house when she admitted that Rob was first choice for Christian. Ian Somerhalder never in running,' before joking that when asked by James 'who I thought should be Christian I said "James Deen, of course" and then she shoved me.'

The Twitterverse is all aflutter now that the final casting decisions have been announced for 2014's most highly anticipated film, with up-and-comer Dakota Johnson taking on the role of the naive and beautiful Anastasia Steele opposite Charlie Hunnam.

Producers have responded to criticism from fans about the casting, with Dana Brunetti posting an explanation of the different elements that come into choosing the leads for a film like this (including talent, availability and chemistry) to his Twitter followers and Michael De Luca tweeting:

'Auditions were stunning, incredible chemistry!'

While Rob won't be steaming up our screens as Christian anytime soon, he is looking very dreamy (and rather broody) in the new Dior Homme ad. HOT.

Are you excited to see Charlie step into Christian's shoes or do you wish the role had gone to Rob? Let us know in a comment below and don't miss the other contenders for the part of Christian.

WATCH: Robert Pattinson's full Dior Homme ad

50 Shades of Grey movie cast contenders

Charlie Hunnam and Dakota Johnson have 'incredible chemistry'

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