Jamie Dornan Fears Death By ‘Fifty Shades’ Fanatics

E.L. James has gained a tremendous following from her engaging and erotic novels. As Jamie Dornan relays, some of her fans that have been eagerly anticipating the movie version of the author’s novel Fifty Shades Of Grey have been quite vocal about their dissatisfaction with the choice of actors for the lead roles.

Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson have been cast in the roles of Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele, and Jamie Dornan has made it known that he fears the response of fans to his portrayal of Grey in the movie version when it opens on February 13.

The 32-year-old, Irish-born actor, who got his start in the modelling world has earned respect for his role on the hit fairy tale-based series Once Upon A Time, so clearly has what it takes to deliver a memorable on-screen performance. Yet, the role he has taken on in Fifty Shades Of Grey is in a whole new category, far and away from the fairy tale genre, as those who are familiar with the character of Grey know all too well.

Details Magazine indicates the challenges facing Dornan in taking on the role of Christian Grey, noting that “the actor was asked not only to play a dashing billionaire with a taste for bondage—but also to bear the weight of millions of women’s sexual fantasies. No pressure, though.”

Dornan’s concerns are very real as he confides his worries in a vulnerable and perhaps comical manner to Details.

“I almost don’t want to put this out there into the ether, but I fear I’ll get murdered, like John Lennon, by one of those mad fans at the premiere. Because a lot of people are very angry that I’m playing this character. And I’m a father now, and a husband. I don’t want to die yet.”

Dornan did manage to calm his nerves and get off the topic of “death by fanatics” long enough to branch off and discuss other aspects of the experience.

In a lengthy interview with the magazine, Jamie admitted that he is not into the S&M thing himself, but does get why people would be into it. The actor also admitted to not cracking the book’s cover until he landed the role of Grey, and added that after doing so “he was drawn to the role because of his own psyche,” as US Weekly recounts.

“[It had to do with] an attraction and understanding I have for people that are broken in some way. Not that I’m some broken bird, but there’s a massive element of me that’s fractured from losing my mother so young, and I’m drawn to characters who are wounded.”

Dornan’s ability to identify with the character he portrays is paramount in order to keep the impassioned Fifty Shades fans pleased. The original actor set for the role was Sons of Anarchy star Charlie Hunnam, who then passed on the role of Grey due to scheduling conflicts. This led to fans petitioning for a replacement and many had their hearts set on Robert Pattinson, Ian Somerhalder, and even Matt Bomer to play Grey. Needless to say, many were left a tad disappointed when Dornan landed the role.

At least the actor can maintain a sense of humor about the looming criticism he may be about to face.

“And when I do get murdered, people will say, ‘God, isn’t it haunting how he did that interview in Details magazine and predicted his own death on the red carpet?'”

But then again, he could be absolutely brilliant and win all of those reluctant doubters over with a seductive and captivating performance. The trailer certainly got the attention of women everywhere.

Watch the official trailer for Fifty Shades Of Grey.

[Feature image via Details Magazine]