‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ sequel to be written by author’s husband

The sequel to the controversial film “Fifty Shades of Grey,’’ will be penned not by its author, E.L.  James, but her husband, Niall Leonard, who has written such novels as “Crusher,’’ “Incinerator’’ and “Shredder’’ as well as teleplays and a screenplay entitled ” Hornblower.’’

Deadline reported that Leonard apparently got the job after writing an outline for the “Grey’’ sequel, `”Fifty Shades Darker.’’

Moreover, many believe he was also an inspiration for the S&M phenomenon novel trilogy that sold over 100 million copies globally.

James once admitted to Katie Couric that her inspiration for “Fifty Shades of Grey” came from  “The Twilight Saga” book series.

Deadline also reported that Leonard was a sounding board for James as she wrote the “Twilight’’ fan fiction and then turned it into the trilogy of books that sold well.

Industry insiders said it will be interesting to see how Leonard’s selection helps or hurts Universal’s ability to get a good director, who will now be dealing with James’ iron clad creative control over the sequel, but then will have work from a script written by her husband, Deadline reported.

Industry insiders also said it is certain that the success of the first film will tempt several auteurs to throw in their bid to direct the sequel.

Initially, when the rumor was that James would write the script, word around Tinsel town was that Universal Pictures would allow her to write a draft and then get an experienced scribe to come in and write the real movie.

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