Although production for Fifty Shades Darker is expected to start in a few months, there are still a number of roles that have yet to be cast. This includes the part of Leila Williams, who is set to be introduced as an important character in the sequel to the hit film, Fifty Shades of Grey . With that in mind, will Lucy Hale or Kendall Jenner be selected to play the all important role?
In books by best-selling author E.L. James, Leila is a past submissive partner of Christian Grey (Jamie Dornan), who is set to make a reappearance in Christian’s life. In playing such a role, the part will undoubtedly feature a few nude scenes, which should not stop Jenner or Hale from accepting the part.
In regards to Hale, the Pretty Little Liars star recently showed some of her erotic side during a cover shoot with Paper magazine. According to Cosmopolitan , her revealing photos, which include some BDSM overtones, follow comments by Hale about her initial audition for Fifty Shades of Grey .
In her interview with the outlet last year, Hale stated that her audition was “uncomfortable.” This was largely because her lines were “very sexual,” and contained “things that I was so embarrassed to be reading out loud.”
However, based on her recent photo shoot, it would appear as though Hale has gotten over her uncomfortable feelings. In fact, the new images feature the tagline, “Going to the dark side,” and Hale’s photos feature plenty of ropes and other bondage accessories. Is this a hint that the actress is getting ready for a role in Fifty Shades Darker ?
“There are plenty of hidden secrets about me,” Hale stated, adding “Those [secrets] will remain hidden.”
Meanwhile, in contrast to Hale, Jenner is no stranger to showing off her body, especially considering her work as a model. Additionally, Fashion & Style is reporting that Jenner is currently taking acting classes and has a desire to expand her career into Hollywood.
Apparently, Jenner was also heavily considered for a part in Fifty Shades of Grey. While this role eventually fell through, an inside source explained to Grazia Magazine how director Sam Taylor-Johnson enjoys watching Jenner on Keeping Up With The Kardashians.
“She was fascinated by her and expressed interest in her appearing in the first film but it didn’t happen,” the source revealed, adding that a previous meeting between Jenner and producers was “really well” received.
Another thing, Jenner has going for is the popularity she would bring to the movie. In fact, Jenner has managed to gain some notoriety with her modeling career and recently was invited to appear in Victoria Secret’s fashion show.
That being said, Jenner’s lack of acting experience would certainly hurt her bid for being selected for the part of Leila. This is likely one reason why she has taken up acting classes, but it still isn’t known just how much she will be able to improve by the time production for the movie begins.
At this point, the studio has yet to reveal which actresses are at the top of the list, let alone who will be playing the role of Leila. While both Hale and Jenner have certain elements that would make them good for the part, it would appear as though Hale has the upper hand given her past acting experience.
Whoever ends up being cast for the role, fans should expect an official announcement soon as production for the hit movie is set to ramp up in the coming months.
Fifty Shades Darker is scheduled to open in theaters everywhere on February 10, 2017.
Tell us! Who do you think should play Leila Williams in Fifty Shades Darker ? Let us know in the comments below.
[Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images]