Speculation surrounding the next actor to portray the iconic character of James Bond is once again reaching a fever pitch, with reports suggesting that British actor Aaron Taylor-Johnson has been offered the role. The Sun has stated that the actor, known for his roles in films like Kick-Ass and various Marvel movies, has received a formal offer to step into the shoes of the famed 007 spy, a role previously inhabited by Daniel Craig. Craig’s departure from the franchise in 2021, after a tenure spanning five films over 16 years, has opened the door for a new face to grace the screen as Bond in the upcoming 26th installment following “No Time to Die.”
Although The BBC has approached Taylor-Johnson for confirmation, Eon Productions, the entity behind the Bond films, has declined to comment on the swirling speculation. However, an insider associated with the production informed BBC News that there’s “no truth in the rumours.” Speculation regarding the coveted role has been circulating for quite some time, and Taylor-Johnson himself acknowledged the buzz in an interview with Numero magazine, expressing his appreciation for the recognition, stating it was “charming and wonderful” that people envisioned him in the role of Bond. He embraced the notion as a compliment, further fueling anticipation.
Taylor-Johnson, aged 33, who notably portrayed John Lennon in the biopic “Nowhere Boy” in 2009, has emerged as a frontrunner according to bookmakers. His diverse acting portfolio includes acclaimed performances in films such as “Nocturnal Animals,” for which he garnered a Golden Globe in 2017, as well as “Anna Karenina,” “Godzilla,” and “Tenet.”
The anticipation over who will assume the mantle of 007 has led to a plethora of names being tossed into the ring over the past few years. Mark O’Connell, author of “Catching Bullets: Memoirs of a Bond Fan,” emphasized the multifaceted nature of the role, stressing that the ideal candidate must encompass qualities beyond mere on-screen charisma, serving as an ambassador for the franchise and British culture itself. O’Connell emphasized the necessity for the actor to possess global recognition and command attention on the grandest of scales.
Among the contenders, Henry Cavill, known for his roles in “Superman” and “Mission: Impossible,” stands out as a favorite. Cavill, who previously expressed his enthusiasm for the role, described the prospect as “very, very exciting” in an interview with GQ in 2020. Another contender, 32-year-old Damson Idris, gained prominence for his role in the US TV crime drama “Snowfall” and Netflix’s “Outside the Wire.” James Norton, recognized for his work in stage productions like “A Little Life” and films such as “Little Women,” also garners attention as a potential candidate. Norton, aged 38, has showcased his acting prowess in various gritty TV dramas, though he remains modest regarding speculation about his suitability for the role, deeming it “very flattering” yet speculative.
The pool of potential Bonds extends further, with names like Tom Hardy, Idris Elba, and Chris Evans also entering discussions. Elba, however, acknowledged concerns regarding his age, suggesting that at 51, he might be deemed “too old” for the role, particularly considering the longevity associated with portraying Bond. Producers, as history shows, may not always opt for the most high-profile actor, as evidenced by the selection of Daniel Craig, whose name initially wasn’t at the forefront following Pierce Brosnan’s departure from the franchise in 2002.
Speaking of Brosnan, the former Bond recently expressed his endorsement for fellow Irishman Cillian Murphy, citing him as a “magnificent” choice for the role. Brosnan had previously lauded Regé-Jean Page, of “Bridgerton” fame, as a “wonderful” potential Bond. As the speculation continues to swirl and discussions regarding the next 007 persist, the anticipation only intensifies, leaving fans eager to see who will ultimately assume the iconic mantle of James Bond.
