What Could Have Been: 10 Actors Who Almost Played Anastasia Steele in Fifty Shades of Grey

The Fifty Shades of Grey franchise was a game-changer for Dakota Johnson, but her path to becoming Anastasia Steele was anything but easy. Based on E.L. James’ best-selling novels, the film series became an R-rated blockbuster, captivating audiences with its intimate and controversial portrayal of BDSM and the evolving relationship between Anastasia and Christian Grey, played by Jamie Dornan. But before Dakota became synonymous with Anastasia, several well-known actresses vied for the coveted role.

The casting process for such a high-profile project generated a buzz across Hollywood. Though Dakota ultimately landed the part, many fans may not know that some of the industry’s biggest names were in the running. From future Marvel stars to award-winning actresses, here are 10 actresses who auditioned or were considered for the role of Anastasia Steele — with one even describing her audition as “mortifying.”

1. Elizabeth Olsen

Today, Elizabeth Olsen is known as the Scarlet Witch in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but back when Fifty Shades was being cast, her name was reportedly in the mix. However, Olsen shot down the rumors, firmly stating that she would not be taking on the role.

2. Chloe Bridges

Chloe Bridges, who later starred in The Carrie Diaries, confirmed that she auditioned for the role of Anastasia. However, after reading the audition scenes, she realized it wasn’t for her. In an interview with Cosmopolitan, she recalled, “There were three pages of sides… I read them and was like, ‘I really can’t do this.’” Describing the audition as highly explicit, Chloe admitted she couldn’t see herself playing a role that involved such graphic content.

3. Mila Kunis

Mila Kunis was often named as a frontrunner during the Fifty Shades casting process. The Black Swan actress initially appeared interested, telling the press she wasn’t “disinterested.” However, Kunis later clarified that she would not be taking the role, emphatically stating, “No, you will not see me in Fifty Shades of Grey. I’m so sorry.”

4. Emma Watson

Rumors swirled around Emma Watson’s potential involvement in the film, especially after a leaked cast list named her as a contender for Anastasia. Fans of the Harry Potter star were curious, but Watson put the rumors to rest in 2013. She addressed the speculation directly, tweeting, “Who here actually thinks I would do Fifty Shades of Grey as a movie? Like really. For real. In real life.” Watson had no interest in the part and shut down the idea with humor and grace.

5. Emilia Clarke

Game of Thrones star Emilia Clarke was reportedly offered the role of Anastasia, but she turned it down due to the film’s sexual content. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Clarke revealed that after her experiences with nude scenes on Game of Thrones, she didn’t want to be pigeonholed. “I’m sick and tired of it because I did it for the character — I didn’t do it so some guy could check out my t-ts, for God’s sake,” she stated. Clarke feared being typecast and decided not to pursue the role.

6. Felicity Jones

Oscar-nominated actress Felicity Jones was also considered for Anastasia, but her age reportedly played a role in her being passed over. According to insiders, Jones “had the look and ability” for the part, but at 30, she was deemed too old to play the 21-year-old college student, Anastasia.

7. Shailene Woodley

Shailene Woodley, known for The Fault in Our Stars and Divergent, was said to be a favorite of author E.L. James. However, due to scheduling conflicts with her Divergent commitments, she was unable to fit Fifty Shades into her already packed calendar.

8. Alicia Vikander

Oscar-winner Alicia Vikander was another actress rumored to be in contention for the role, although it’s unclear if she ever formally auditioned. Vikander’s name came up during the casting frenzy, but no further details about her involvement have been revealed.

9. Imogen Poots

British actress Imogen Poots was also mentioned as a possible contender for Anastasia. Like Vikander, it’s unknown whether she auditioned, but she was certainly in the conversation during the casting process.

10. Lucy Hale

Pretty Little Liars star Lucy Hale did audition for the role, and it left a lasting impression — though not in a good way. Hale later described the audition as “mortifying.” Speaking to People in 2020, she recalled feeling uncomfortable with the explicit content she was asked to read aloud. “There were some things that I was so embarrassed to be reading out loud,” Hale admitted. While the experience wasn’t ideal, she took it in stride, viewing it as a learning opportunity.

The Final Choice: Dakota Johnson

In the end, Dakota Johnson won the role of Anastasia Steele, beating out a strong field of contenders. Her portrayal of the character across the three films cemented her place in Hollywood. Though the road to Fifty Shades had its share of twists and turns, the film’s casting remains a topic of intrigue even years after the franchise’s conclusion. And while some actresses found the process daunting or even embarrassing, Dakota’s fearless performance took the role to new heights.