‘Fifty Shades Darker’ Cast, Release Date and Update: Kim Basinger to Star as ‘Mrs. Robinson’

E.L. James, the author of the "Fifty Shades" trilogy, announced that Kim Basinger will play the role of "Mrs. Robinson" in the upcoming "Fifty Shades Darker." In fact, the news was confirmed by the 62-year-old actress' daughter, Ireland Baldwin, on her Twitter page on Sunday.

The former fashion model will take the character of Elena Lincoln, who is known as Christian Grey's Business partner and former lover, a source told Variety. It's the first time that Universal Pictures affirmed a new cast member of the movie franchise.

To recall, Lincoln is one of the main roles from the novel series and the original movie already hinted her character. Her appearance in the second movie will be the biggest revelation that will be unfolded.

Additionally, Dakota Johnson and Jamie Dornan are going to reprise their roles as Anastasia Steele and Grey himself. James Foley will still take the director's seat and will help Niall Leonard to write the script.

Also, fans will once again see Luke Grimes, Eloise Mumford and Max Martini in the second installment, with Michael De Luca and Dana Brunetti. Meanwhile, in the book story of "Fifty Shades Darker," Lincoln is the friend of Grey's mother, Movie News Guide reported.

She's also the responsible on the sadomasochistic side of Grey for introducing him to the world of BDSM. Later, she became his personal friend, confidante and the two remains close and their relationship makes Steele uncomfortable.

Furthermore, Lincoln will continue to mentor Grey in spite of his being a critically acclaimed successful businessman. She will be his guide in his personal and professional life, which made him depend on her heavily.

As a result, his blossoming romance with Steele will be threatened in the second sequel. It has been said that "Fifty Shades Darker" and "Fifty Shades Freed" is set to be released in February 2017 and February 2018.