Technically, Naomi Novik's stuff was fanfic once upon a time too. I think the difference is you know, actual writing skill. There's also the fact that by all accounts CC and EL James seem to be despicable people. (OTOH, that might be a trait which only helps them out in fame-circles.)

I still have a hard time trying to understand how that SoG stuff could even be MADE into a movie. What the hell is there that translates? JUST LET ME WATCH GOOD PORN.