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There’s hardly anyone unaware of the name Jamie Dornan. The portrayal of Christian Grey in the erotic romantic drama franchise has earned the Irish actor worldwide stardom. Despite the success, the role left a significant mark on Dornan’s career. No matter how much cash it grabbed, the critical reception was simply pathetic. But the fans were surprised to know that the 40-year-old already anticipated the hatred way before the movie was released.
Initially, when the erotic romantic franchise was planned to kick off withFifty Shades of Grey,Jamie Dornan was not the first choice for the role. It was Charlie Hunnam. But eventually, he backed out and the franchise made Dornan a worldwide name and he continued the role in two more movies.
Also Read:“It’s not my girlfriend’s favorite part of my job”: Charlie Hunnam Turned DownFifty Shades of Greyto Keep Girlfriend Happy Despite Losing $1 Billion Franchise to Jamie Dornan
Jamie Dornan anticipated theFifty Shadeshatred
Back in 2015 when the Sam Taylor-Johnson directorial dropped,Fifty Shades of Greywas one of the most talked about topics in the town. Despite being one of the biggest hits, the erotic flick was simply trashed by critics. The bad press didn’t end here as the film also went on to bag most of the awards in the 2015 edition of the infamous Golden Raspberry Awards. But if Dornan’s words are to be believed, he anticipated all of that way earlier.
In an interview with GQ,Jamie Dornanrevealed that he already anticipated the effects of theFifty Shadesfranchise on his career. He cited one of the main reasons for that as the bad reception of the books. At the end of the day, the source material was the same and he knew that a bad book can’t be a critically acclaimed movie. TheBelfastactor further added that it was the moment when he was enjoying the success of his thriller serieswhen several reports stated how it was a‘devastating’decision for the actor.
“I’ll never forget, the Guardian did this long piece on Fifty Shades – it was just after The Fall came out and I had been nominated for a Bafta, a huge moment in my career – about my announcement and about what a devastating career choice it was for me. So the early consensus of my ‘bad choice’, let’s just say, I was very aware of that narrative.”
Also Read:IsFifty Shades of GreyStar Jamie Dornan in Talks to Play Fantastic Four’s Human Torch in MCU? Rumor Explained
Even Jamie Dornan is aware of the fact thatFifty Shadeswill always remain an unremovable stain in his career. No matter how much better he becomes, the franchise starring him and Dakota Johnson won’t leave him. But the actor was very open to admitting that he never regretted the decision.
Jamie Dornan doesn’t regret takingFifty Shades
The interview went on to become more interesting as theSynchronicstar openly stated that the reception of the franchise never made him regret his decision. He described that it was not a decision made in seconds and it also required thoughts. He added that the franchise didn’t do any harm and also provided him with huge financial success which leaves no place for regrets.
“Look, put it this way: it’s done no harm to my career to be part of a movie franchise that has made more than $1 billion. Every working actor would say the same thing. It’s provided – a lot. There’s no shame in saying it’s transformed my life and my family’s life financially. I am very, very grateful for this and always will be. And the fans loved it.”
Following the franchise based on E.L. James’ book, Jamie Dornan appeared in a lot of projects some of which likeBelfasteven garnered a lot of favorable reviews.
Also Read:“I must succeed”:Fifty Shades of GreyStar Jamie Dornan Felt Super Competitive After Losing Superman Role to Henry Cavill, Asked MCU to Cast Him in Superhero Role as Revenge
Recently, the actor attracted wide appreciation for his role in the HBO Max seriesThe Touristwhich was also renewed for a second season. Besides that, he is also set to reunite withBelfastdirector Kenneth Branagh in his upcomingA Haunting in Venice.On the other hand, he is also set to star alongside Gal Gadot in the upcoming Netflix spy thrillerHeart of Stone.
Heart of Stonewill hit Netflix on July 04, 2025, whileA Haunting in Venicewill hit the theaters on July 18, 2025.
The movies in theFifty Shadesfranchise can be rented on Apple TV+.
Subham Mandal
Senior Writer
Articles Published :1461
Subham Mandal is currently working as a content writer for FandomWire with an ardent interest in the world of pop culture. He has written more than 1000 articles on different spheres of modern pop culture and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. He’s also an experienced student journalist having demonstrated work experience with the Times of India. He aspires to be a column writer in the future.
