The search for Christian Grey has begun anew. We learned earlier this month that Charlie Hunnam, the original actor cast in the high-profile film. James’ Fifty Shades of Grey has dropped out. Fans are still curious if it was truly due to scheduling conflicts or something else entirely (could he be avoiding beef with Robert Pattinson?). Meanwhile, the filmmakers have moved on to casting a new Christian Grey to act alongside Dakota Johnson.
Several hunky actors (some of them lesser-known, others bonafide A-list) have been rumored to be contenders to take on the role of Christian Grey. Here’s what the roundup looks like:
1. Luke Bracey
Luke Bracey, an Australian actor, is rumored to be one of the top contenders for the role. Bracey, a 24-year-old actor is known for starring in “The Home Away” and appearing as Leighton Meester’s love interest in the 2011 film Monte Carlo. The lesser known star managed to beat other potential contenders, namely Matt Bomer, Alexander Skarsgard, and Ian Somerhalder – a fan favorite. If Bracey can beat out this list of handsome men, there must be something special about him!
2. Billy Magnussen
Billy Magnussen, 28, is our next candidate. The NYC native played Casey Hughes on the CBS soap, As the World Turns, and has recently been cast as Rapunzel’s Prince in the upcoming film adaptation of Into the Woods, a Broadway musical by Stephen Sondheim.
3. Jamie Dornan
The 31-year-old Irish actor, Jamie Dornan, is also rumored to be in the running. Dornan plays Paul Spector in the U.K. TV series The Fall, and starred as Sheriff Graham/The Huntsman on ABC’s Once Upon a Time.
4. Christian Cooke
The Hollywood Reporter claims that British actor Christian Cooke is also being considered for the role. This 26-year-old currently stars as Mercutio in the new Carlo Carlei-directed Romeo and Juliet film alongside Hailee Steinfeld and Douglas Booth. Cooke has also appeared in a number of TV series like The Chase, Echo Beach, Doctor Who, Trinity, and The Promise.
5. Theo James
Theo James, 28, is a British actor who played David in 2012’s Underworld: Awakening. James is also known for his appearances in The Inbetweeners Movie (2011) and Golden Boy (2013).
6. Scott Eastwood
That’s right – Clint Eastwood’s Internet-crashing son, Scott Eastwood, is also being considered for the part. At 27, Eastwood has had roles in Flags of Our Fathers, Invictus, and Trouble with the Curve. He also recently shot some sexy shirtless photos for a spread in Town & Country that gained a lot of attention.
7. Chris Evans
Captain America himself could be trying his hand at a new role. Though playing Christian Grey may be stepping out of his usual role, fans have faith in him – he’s a well-liked candidate in the running.
Have a favorite contender? Tell us in the comments!