London - Robert Pattinson was E.L. James's choice for 'Fifty Shades of Grey', according to screenwriter Bret Easton Ellis.
He has claimed the author behind the erotic novel wanted the former 'Twilight Saga' star to play the lead in the upcoming movie adaptation.
He wrote on Twitter: "Talked to E.L. James at a party over the summer: her first choice for Christian was Rob Pattinson and Matt Bomer was never in the running."
Easton - who penned the script for 'The Canyons' - also said he drunkenly suggested porn star James Deen for the lead role after he impressed in the noir thriller.
He added: "When E.L. James asked me who I thought should be Christian I said "James Deen, of course" and then she shoved me. We were both very wasted."
Earlier on Monday, it was confirmed that Charlie Hunnam has been cast in the role.
E.L. James announced in a series of tweets: "Good moaning all. Hold on to your hats ... I am delighted to let you know that the lovely Dakota Johnson has agreed to be our Anastasia in the film adaptation of Fifty ... So... Christian... The gorgeous and talented Charlie Hunnam will be Christian Grey in the film adaptation of Fifty Shades of Grey. (sic)"
Dakota previously appeared in 'The Social Network' - in which she shared a love scene with Justin Timberlake - and had small roles in '21 Jump Street', 'The Five-Year Engagement' and 'Beastly'.
She is the daughter of Don Johnson, best known for TV shows 'Miami Vice' and 'Nash Bridges', and his actress ex-wife Melanie Griffith.
It's thought producers cast Dakota because they wanted a young, up-and-coming actress to play the role of virginal Anastasia, who embarks on an intense voyage of sexual discovery with her S&M-loving boss Christian.
British actor Charlie's previous work includes a lead role in TV series 'Sons of Anarchy' and a starring part in Guillermo del Toro's blockbuster 'Pacific Rim'.
'Fifty Shades of Grey' will be produced by Universal for release in August 2014.