Sam Taylor-Johnson Will Not Direct 'FIFTY SHADES' Sequels

According to Variety, Sam Taylor-Johnson will not be directing FIFTY SHADES DARKER, the sequel to FIFTY SHADES OF GREY.

The news comes after rumors of the helmer's less-than-friendly collaboration with James on the first film. Not only that, but screenwriter Kelly Marcel, who also allegedly butted heads with James, recently announced her exit.

Now the hunt is on for a new writer/director team. James is reportedly interested in adapting FIFTY SHADES DARKER herself. As previously reported, she is seeking direct control over the scripts for the soon-to-be franchise.

The FIFTY SHADES OF GREY movie stars Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson -- who are most likely returning for the next two films -- along with Jennifer Ehle, Luke Grimes, Victor Rasuk, Eloise Mumford, Max Martini, Rita Ora, Marcia Gay Harden and Callum Keith Rennie.

The book series has become a global phenomenon and the trilogy has been translated in over 50 languages worldwide since its release. To date, the "Fifty Shades" trilogy has sold over 70 million copies worldwide in e-book and print, making it one of the fastest-selling book series ever.

FIFTY SHADES OF GREY (first published in 2011) follows the relationship of 27-year-old billionaire Christian Grey and college student Anastasia Steele. Subsequent novels in the series, FIFTY SHADES DARKER (2011) and FIFTY SHADES FREE (2012) explore the couple's deepening relationship.

Who do you think should direct the sequel?