After three blockbuster films, you’d think Jamie Dornan had made peace with his portrayal of Christian Grey. But in a surprisingly candid moment during a podcast appearance, Dornan confessed there was one thing he’d do differently if he had the chance: “I’d make him… softer.”
For fans who saw Grey as the ultimate alpha—controlling, mysterious, emotionally restrained—this was shocking. But Dornan explained, “I think we missed an opportunity to explore his humanity. The emotional layers didn’t get enough time to breathe.”
He’s not blaming the script. Dornan says it was the nature of the franchise—fast-paced, hyper-stylized, and centered on seduction. “We shot quickly, and most of the focus was on the intensity. But sometimes, Christian’s trauma got buried beneath all the glances and silk ties.”
He admits he wishes Christian had more vulnerability on screen, especially during key turning points—like when he reveals his childhood abuse or proposes to Ana. “Moments that should’ve been fragile ended up feeling rushed,” Dornan said.
Interestingly, Dakota Johnson agrees. In a separate interview, she echoed the same thoughts: “There were so many little pieces of Christian we only hinted at. I think Jamie wanted to bring more of that out, but the format didn’t always allow for it.”
Today, Dornan doesn’t regret the role—but he’s open about its limits. “Christian Grey will follow me forever,” he said. “I just hope people know—I always wanted more from him. Not in power, but in heart.”
