Studio says Emma Watson not cast in 'Fifty Shades'

NEW YORK, March 15 (UPI) -- Focus Features told EW.com British actress Emma Watson has not been hired for its film version of the erotic best-selling novel "Fifty Shades of Grey."

Contrary to media reports claiming Watson had snagged the coveted role of Anastasia Steele in the big-screen adaptation of "Grey," the studio said casting has not begun yet for the eagerly awaited movie.

Watson, 22, is the former female lead of the "Harry Potter" film franchise. She also has appeared in the celebrated movies "My Week with Marilyn" and "The Perks of Being a Wallflower."

Watson's publicist declined to comment on the "Grey" casting story, EW.com said.