Robert Pattinson details why 'Fifty Shades of Grey' role slipped away

Robert Pattinson says he never reaches the stage of officially joining the film

By Ilsa Fatima Published July 25, 2026 at 04:16 PM GMT+5 Updated 9 hours ago
Robert Pattinson details why 'Fifty Shades of Grey' role slipped away
Robert Pattinson details why 'Fifty Shades of Grey' role slipped away

Robert Pattinson has shared the real reason he did not pursue the lead role in Fifty Shades of Grey, ending years of speculation over the blockbuster film.

Speaking to Howard Stern, the actor explained that although he knew author E.L. James, he was never formally involved in the casting process.

During the candid chat, the host asked The Odyssey star about passing on the film, saying, "Fifty Shades of Grey, one of the biggest movies. Why'd you turn that down? I know the author of the book wanted you."

He replied, "It was never really a turned-down thing. I never really got to the point where I was properly involved."

The actor also recalled meeting author E.L. James before the film adaptation, saying, "I know the writer of the book... I met her in Chateau Marmont."

Explaining why the role did not appeal to him, the Twilight famed actor said, "You just need to work out much. It’s literally just gonna be exhausting."

When Howard asked if he ever tried getting in shape, he admitted, "I've tried. I tried. It just doesn't work. Literally, I just can't. I don't understand how people do it."

The film was ultimately led by Jamie Dornan as Christian Grey and Dakota Johnson as Anastasia Steele following its 2015 release.

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