Niall Leonard, E L James' husband, will write "Fifty Shades" sequel script

The "Fifty Shades of Grey" sequel will be a family affair.

A spokeswoman for Universal Pictures confirmed Thursday that the husband of E L James, Niall Leonard, will write the script for the follow-up to the global hit.

Leonard is also a published author. He has written for several British TV shows, including "Air Force One Is Down" and "Wire in the Blood."

Kelly Marcel penned the original adaptation but isn't returning. Also not returning is director Sam Taylor-Johnson, whose disputes with James were well-known.

"Directing 'Fifty Shades of Grey' has been an intense and incredible journey for which I am hugely grateful. I have Universal to thank for that. I forged close and lasting relationships with the cast, producers and crew and most especially, with Dakota and Jamie," she said in a statement to Deadline. "While I will not be returning to direct the sequels, I wish nothing but success to whosoever takes on the exciting challenges of films two and three."

"Fifty Shades of Grey" made $568.8 million worldwide.

The Hollywood Reporter first reported Leonard's involvement in the sequel.