According to a breaking new report from the Hollywood Reporter, Jamie Dornan and Billy Magnussen have screen tested opposite Dakota Johnson for the role of Christian Grey in the upcoming Fifty Shades of Grey film adaption. The studio and filmmakers are clearly moving quickly on casting, considering Charlie Hunnam dropped out a week ago and the film’s set to begin filming in another two weeks.
Dornan was always listed as a frontrunner, ever since the initial list of names leaked, but Magnussen is a new introduction. You know what’s curious though? Dornan’s got his own distinctive look, but Magnussen looks remarkably like Charlie Hunnam – the same blonde hair, flesh colored facial hair, and even the same complexion. However, he’s a Tony nominee so he’s clearly a capable actor and Dornan has been earning raves for his work in The Fall. Whatever else, the studio’s at least trying its best to get high caliber actors for the role, even if they’re not well known.
This way, the film might even serve as a breakout for whoever plays Christian Grey, and if the film doesn’t do well, they’re not famous enough for it to make a difference.
Right now, these two are the only names that have supposedly screen tested for the part – but it will really all come down to who has the better chemistry with Dakota, and who director Sam Taylor-Johnson wants more for the part. It really seems like it’s Dornan’s to lose, but you never really know when another actor will come in and steal the part.
What do you guys think about either Jamie Dornan or Billy Magnussen playing Christian Grey in Fifty Shades of Grey? Let us know in the comments.
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