Dakota Johnson ready for 'Fifty Shades' despite losing her Christian Grey

(UPI) -- Despite Charlie Hunnam's premature exit from the film adaptation of "Fifty Shades of Grey," actress Dakota Johnson is set on playing Anastasia Steele.

Chemistry with Hunnam had been rumored to be a large part of why Johnson was selected for the role, but directors say they are moving ahead with Johnson.

Hunnam abruptly quit the project over the weekend citing his TV schedule. Rumors also spread that Hunnam was having a hard time with all the attention that came with the "Fifty Shades" casting.

Johnson, 24, has also been overwhelmed with the fame that came from her casting.

"Dakota is having a very hard time dealing with all the press. When she first got the role, it was way too much for her," a source told E! News, adding that Dakota went from being virtually unknown to someone "everyone wants a piece of".

"It's been tough," the source said.

Now, Hunnam's replacement will have to have chemistry with Johnson rather than the other way around.

The film is reportedly still on track for its August 1, 2014 release. If production is pushed to early 2014, however, the movie may see a holiday season release, which could improve its chances in the box office.