Sam Taylor-Johnson Won't Return to Direct 'Fifty Shades' Sequel

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Despite Fifty Shades of Grey becoming a worldwide hit, grossing over $558 million at the box office internationally, director Sam Taylor-Johnson won’t be returning to helm the sequel, Fifty Shades Darker.

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Variety
cites multiple sources saying the director's "constant arguments with author E.L. James over the direction of the film during its production forced Taylor-Johnson to reconsider her options."

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Screenwriter Kelly Marcel also won't be returning for Fifty Shades Darker, though the film's stars Dakota Johnson and Jamie Dornan are on board to star in the erotic adaptation.

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Variety
 goes on to report that James is interested in adapting the second book herself. Universal is reportedly considering that option, but plans to take meetings before making a final decision.

To show there was no bad blood between herself and the film's stars, Taylor-Johnson posted an Instagram pic on Wednesday of her posed with Dornan. The caption simply reads: "Today with Jamie. #jamiedornan."

Production on Fifty Shades Darker is slated to begin in early 2016.

WATCH: Rumors Suggest Jamie Dornan Won't Return to Fifty Shades (Yeah, Right!)

Jamie Dornan addressed rumors that he was leaving the Fifty Shades franchise earlier this year. See more in the video below.

Who do you think should direct Fifty Shades Darker?