‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ Author E.L. James Worth Nearly $60 million

E.L. James has made quite the fortune from writing about BDSM. The author behind the very popular book series, "Fifty Shades of Grey," "Fifty Shades Darker" "Fifty Shades Freed," and recently released, "Grey" is reportedly worth almost $60 million.

According to the Guardian, the 52-year-old's company, Fifty Shades LTD., brought in around $31 million last year with about $15 million in profits. These profits combined with the profits earned since the first book was released resulted in an overall estimate of around $60 million.

"The review of the business states that the company had a very successful year during which it secured further royalty and licensing agreements," the report on the James' company stated. "The company continues to be profitable, with income streams contracted to continue for a number of years."

James first three novels sold more than 125 million copies. Her most recent one, "Grey," which tells the same story but from Christian Grey's point of view, sold more than one million copies in the first four days after it was released.

James's best selling novels are also being adapted for the big screen. The "Fifty Shades of Grey" movie was released on Valentine's Day this year. It has grossed more than $560 million in the box office worldwide. "Fifty Shades Darker" and "Fifty Shades Freed" already have release dates for 2017 and 2018, respectively.