Who was meant to play Christian Grey in upcoming Fifty Shades of Grey film adaptation?

IF IT were up to author E.L. James, a different actor would be playing the sexy lead in the film adaptation of Fifty Shades of Grey.

Charlie Hunnam has been cast in the lead role for the 50 Shades of Grey movie. Picture: Splash News

IT WAS meant to be Robert Pattinson.

It has been revealed the Fifty Shades of Grey author wanted the Twilight hunk to star as the whip-wielding Christian in the upcoming movie adaptation.

E.L James reportedly made the confession to a fellow writer when she was partying up a storm at Pattinson's house in California back in June.

Novelist Bret Easton Ellis took to Twitter shortly after it was announced yesterday that Sons of Anarchy actor Charlie Hunnam was cast in the coveted role.

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.

— Bret Easton Ellis (@BretEastonEllis) September 2, 2013

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.

— Bret Easton Ellis (@BretEastonEllis) September 2, 2013

 Hunnam, 33, will get up close and personal with Melanie Griffith's daughter Dakota Johnson, who has been cast as female protagonist Anastasia Steele.

The long-awaited casting announcements were met with widespread criticism yesterday, so much so that one of the film's producers, Dana Brunetti, took to Twitter to defend their choices.

There is a lot that goes into casting that isn't just looks. Talent, availability, their desire to do it, chemistry with other actor, etc.

— Dana Brunetti (@DanaBrunetti) September 2, 2013

So if your favorite wasn't cast, then it is most likely due to something on that list. Keep that in mind while hating and keep perspective.

— Dana Brunetti (@DanaBrunetti) September 2, 2013

The movie will be released in the US in August next year.

Would you rather see Robert Pattinson over Charlie Hunnam? Share with us in the comments section below.