LOS ANGELES, Oct 24 — The Irish actor will play the kinky billionaire who seduces Anastasia Steele (Dakota Johnson) in the film “Fifty Shades of Grey,” adapted from the first novel in E.L. James's sultry trilogy.

Producers on the film have finally found their leading man. Former underwear model Jamie Dornan has landed the role of the arrogant and seductive Christian Grey, according to the Hollywood trade press.

The 31-year-old actor, seen in the TV series “Once Upon a Time” and “The Fall,” was chosen over Scott Eastwood, Alexander Skarsgard, Billy Magnussen and a number of other stars once in the running to play the sadomasochistic character, who has a predilection for bondage and other rather taboo bedroom activities.

Jamie Dornan's arrival will allow Universal Pictures to stick to their initial production schedule and begin shooting the film in November. British director Sam Taylor-Wood will direct the erotic coming-of-age tale, which will follow the erotic awakening of Anastasia Steele (Dakota Johnson), a reserved college student who becomes Christian Grey's prey, before becoming the love of his life.

“Fifty Shades of Grey” will be released in theatres worldwide on August 1, 2014. — AFP-Relaxnews