If the latest rumors hold any validity at all than, 'Fifty Shades Darker,' the sequel to the romance blockbuster based on E.L. James' best-selling series 'Fifty Shades of Grey,' will not hit theaters before 2017. Although the production of the second installment of 'Fifty Shades of Grey' is said to be already underway, fans will possibly wait for some time before they can watch the story on the silver screen.

The Hollywood Reporter says that the stars of 'Fifty Shades Darker' Dakota Johnson and Jamie Dornan have been reportedly asked to "plan for an early 2016 shoot." In all likelihood, the film will be released some time around Valentine's Day 2017.

According to well-informed sources, Universal Pictures' search for a new director is reportedly responsible for the delay, as there are speculations that Sam Taylor-Johnson, who was at the helm in 'Fifty Shades of Grey,' is parting ways with the franchise. In addition, the studio is also looking for a new screenwriter and, according to some reports; James is trying for the opportunity to pen the script of the second installment of the 'Fifty Shades of Grey' movie franchise.

Earlier, there were rumors that the shooting of the sequel would begin in Vancouver in June. Moreover, after a fan screening of 'Fifty Shades of Grey' in New York in February, which was attended Johnson, Dornan, James and Taylor-Johnson, the attendees claimed there was speculation that the sequel would be released in March 2016.

Other rumors have delighted 'Fifty Shades of Grey' fans as Johnson, who portrays lead Anastasia "Ana" Steele in the film, as well as her counterpart Dornan, who plays billionaire Christian Grey, are likely to reprise their respective roles. Incidentally, the return of these two actors to the sequel also accompanies with their desire for a hefty raise in their salaries.

After 'Fifty Shades of Grey' collected over $500 million at the worldwide box office, Johnson and Dornan are said to be looking for a bump in their salaries. According to insiders, the two actors are using Jennifer Lawrence's salary for the 'Hunger Games' films to substantiate their demands. In fact, Lawrence earned $10 million for 'Catching Fire' compared to just $500,000 for the original 'Hunger Games' movie. Currently, Johnson and Dornan are said to be negotiating their salaries, which is expected to be settled within the next six months.