Sam Taylor-Johnson will not return to direct “Fifty Shades Darker"

From Variety:

Sam Taylor-Johnson will not return to direct “Fifty Shades Darker,” the sequel to “Fifty Shades of Grey.”

Several reports, including one from Variety, said Taylor-Johnson had been looking to move on from the franchise, with sources saying constant arguments with author E.L. James over the direction of the film during its production forced Taylor-Johnson to reconsider her options.

With screenwriter Kelly Marcel not returning to adapt the sequel, Universal will now look to find a writer and director to replace the two. Variety first reported that James is very interested in adapting it herself and that U is considering it, but will begin meeting with people before deciding which option is best.

Sources say production is expected to get under way in the first quarter of 2016 with stars Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson on board to return.

From The Hollywood Reporter:

Sam Taylor-Johnson, who directed Fifty Shades of Grey, is not returning to direct the movie's sequel.

"While I will not be returning to direct the sequels, I wish nothing but success to whosoever takes on the exciting challenges of films two and three," she said in a statement released today. She said of the hit movie starring Dakota Johnson and Jamie Dornan," 

"Directing Fifty Shades of Grey has been an intense and incredible journey for which I am hugely grateful. I have Universal to thank for that. I forged close and lasting relationships with the cast, producers and crew and most especially, with Dakota and Jamie."

More to come.

Via portal50tons.