Charlie Hunnam, the Original Christian Grey, Explains Why He Still Hasn’t Seen ‘Fifty Shades’

When Charlie Hunnam backed out of starring as Christian Grey in 2015’s “Fifty Shades of Grey,” due to what Universal cited as some sort of scheduling conflict with his FX motorcycle club drama “Sons Of Anarchy,” fans of E. L. James’ erotic romance novel were left wondering what really happened. Now, in an interview with Elle Magazine, the actor has opened up about the film he passed on.

READ MORE: ‘The Lost City of Z’: Charlie Hunnam Plans a Dangerous Journey in First Clip from James Gray’s Latest

“I haven’t,” the actor answered when asked if he had seen the films. “I developed a friendship with [‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ director Sam Taylor-Johnson], but that was a somewhat traumatic experience for me. I didn’t want to open that wound.”

The actor also opened up about filming sex scenes. “I try to be sensitive to the fact that we’re doing something intimate, but also keep a clear boundary,” the actor said. “Because I’m in a very committed relationship [with jewelry designer Morgana McNelis], and I’m also cognizant that it’s not my girlfriend’s favorite part of my job. It’s a delicate balance to strike—to be emotionally open enough to have an experience that feels honest between two people but also maintain that it’s just for the film. It’s not my favorite thing to do. I’m also a germaphobe […] I’ve been profoundly germaphobic since I was a young child. I don’t want to kiss anyone but my girlfriend for my whole life.”

READ MORE: ‘Fifty Shades Darker’ Review: Dakota Johnson and Jamie Dornan Loosen Up For Sexier, Sillier Sequel

Hunnam added, “Everyone thinks it’s great to be an actor and get to kiss a bunch of beautiful actresses in films, but I actually hate it.” The actor can be seen next in James Gray’s “The Lost City of Z,” out in April.

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