THE lead role in the much anticipated Fifty Shades of Grey movie is up for grabs once again after it was confirmed Sons of Anarchy star Charlie Hunnam could no longer play the part.

The 33-year-old was set play devious businessman Christian Grey in the film version of the enormously popular erotic fiction novel, but Universal Studios announced on the weekend conflicts with Hunnam's television schedule made it impossible for him to prepare for the role.

The casting of Hunnam as Grey and sitcom actress Dakota Johnson as the naïve Anastasia Steele, sparked outrage amongst fans on social media.

It is not known whether the pressure of re-casting will impact the premiere date of August 14 next year.

The film, based on the first book in the sado-masochistic trilogy, is being co-produced by author E.L James.