Charlie Hunnam quits 'Fifty Shades of Grey'

Charlie Hunnam has dropped out of playing the male lead in the screen adaptation of Fifty Shades of Grey.

The 33-year-old was supposed to play Christian Grey in the movie adaptation of EL James' novel, but because of his busy TV schedule, he had to turn down the role.

A replacement for Hunnam, who features in TV show Sons of Anarchy, is yet to be named.

Universal Pictures said Hunnam's withdrawal was a mutual decision, reports mirror.co.uk.

In a statement, the firm added that the time the actor had to prepare for the film had been limited by his television work.

To be directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson, Fifty Shades of Grey will release in 2014.