The much-awaited sequel, "Fifty Shades Darker" is on its way!
With news of director departures, salary disagreements and script issues, fans can now breath easy knowing everything's going forward full steam ahead. Earlier a new image providing a world's first look at Jamie Dornan for the second installment of the erotic-romance franchise were released.
In an exclusive, Access Hollywood provided the first promotional shot for the sequel staring Dornan and lead actress Dakota Johnson.
The Northern Irish actor looks mysteriously debonair in the black and white photo as looks into a mirror. The actor is putting on a masquerade ball mask and looking dashing in a formal tuxedo.
"Exclusive tease of Fifty Shades Darker on the #FiftyShades Blu-ray available May 8. Get free 2-Day shipping through Sunday only at Amazon.com. https://uni.pictures/FSDamz," wrote the image's caption.
The film, based on the book of British author E.L. James features Dornan as the S&M loving billionaire, Christian Grey.
"Fifty Shades of Grey" Sequels
Earlier this week Universal announced during ComicCon that the two sequels of the hit film -- "Fifty Shades Darker" and "Fifty Shades Freed" -- are under development. Both films are set to open on Valentine's Day in 2017 and 2018, respectively.
In addition, James' husband, Niall Leonard, will be writing the sequel. Leonard is a published novelist and screen writer and has been married to James for 28 years. He reportedly worked on the script for the original "Fifty Shades" film but was uncredited.
"Niall is an outstanding writer in his own right, with multiple established credits, and we are lucky to have him join Team Fifty," said producer Michael De Luca in a statement.
While it will take time before the second installment is released in cinemas, the "Fifty Shades Darker" teaser will be exclusively available in the upcoming release of "Fifty Shades of Grey" on Digital HD (May 1) and Blu-ray (May 8).
Director Sam Taylor-Johnson and screenwriter Kelly Marcel will not be returning for the sequels due to reported clashes with author James. To date, a new director has not been announced. As it stands, lead stars Johnson and Dornan are said to be negotiating the terms of their contracts for the confirmed sequels.
Stay tuned for more.
