Emma Watson (Instagram)

Rumour mills continue to throw up details of the possible cast of the film version of EL James's best-selling book, Fifty Shades of Grey. The latest has to do with the former Harry Potter star, Emma Watson.

The 22-year-old Paris-born British actress was linked with the project last summer, but denied the reports. They're back though, and speculation she will play Anastasia Steele is growing.

The rumours are believed to originate from a hacker team called M3du5a, working in conjunction with the globally known Anonymous Collective, and come from documents stolen from the German studio Constantin Film. A report by Cinema Blend states Watson has been shortlisted to play the naive but sexually adventurous young heroine. However, it is unclear if the documents in question are new or older papers, meaning Watson may have been considered for the role but is now not involved in the project.

Meanwhile Universal Pictures and Focus Features have responded by saying "no one has been cast yet".

The film adaptation of James's novel was announced last spring, as the book topped bestseller lists worldwide. A number of high-profile actresses, including Kate Moss and Alexis Bledel (from Gilmore Girls) were linked with the role of Anastasia Steele.

However, there has been no official confirmation of any sort from the production houses regarding either the cast or director. 

Meanwhile, according to a report in the Independent, Watson recently declined an offer to play the part of Cinderella in an adaptation of the fairy tale, because of her hectic schedule. The British actress was offered the part of the central character by director Kenneth Branagh, who is directing this remake of the Disney classic.

"Emma Watson has decided NOT to star in Disney's CINDERELLA," tweeted Variety reporter Marc Graser.

According to the publication, actress Cate Blanchett has agreed to play Cinderella's evil stepmother and is still attached to the project.

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