Matt Bomer is the new favourite to take on the role of Christian Grey in the 50 Shades of Grey film.

Charlie Hunnam announced his withdrawal from the part over the weekend, citing his busy TV schedule as the reason for his departure.

Fans had been calling for Hunnam to be replaced since the casting was announced in September and a petition on Change.org has seen over 87,000 people vote for Magic Mike star Matt Bomer to play Christian.

Bomer recently said that he was grateful for the support, but with Hunnam still on board at the time, he wouldn't reveal whether he would be interested in the role.

"I'm so grateful for the fans and touched. I'm looking forward to seeing the movie with Charlie and Dakota."

Charlie Hunnam was the original choice to play Christian Grey

Bomer is currently at odds of 6/1 to replace Hunnam in the lead role.

Irish actor Cillian Murphy, who is currently starring in BBC's Peaky Blinders, is close behind Bomer at 7/1, with The Vampire Diaries' Ian Somerhalder third favourite at 8/1, according to Ladbrokes.

Other names in the frame include Bomer's Magic Mike co-stars Alex Pettyfer and Matthew McConaughey. Ryan Gosling, Brad Pitt and Robert Pattinson are also rumoured to be in the running for the lead role.