1 week Ago By Danni Scott
Replacing Daniel Craig was never going to be an easy task but James Bond producers know exactly what they’re looking for in the next 007. Speculation has been rife around the closely guarded plans for the return of Bond, from who will direct the film to who will sing the theme song . The crucial questions is who will be sipping martinis as the iconic character, with names like Aaron Taylor-Johnson , Paul Mescal , and Jonathan Bailey in the running.
While they haven’t teased any names , producers Barbara Broccoli and her brother Michael G. Wilson did reveal their vision for Bond. ‘It’s a big decision,’ Barbara – who is the daughter of famed Bond producer Albert ‘Cuddy’ Broccoli – told The Independent .
They have confirmed that James Bond will be a man, after Lashana Lynch made history in 2021’s No Time to Die as the first Black female 007, Nomi. They are focusing on actors in their 30s, which could revitalise the franchise for a younger audience but rules out long rumored Idris Elba, 52, and possibly Henry Cavill, 41. While most of the popular names in the running are white, the producers have said that this is not a given in what could be a historic casting move.
The big question is who is willing to sign up for at least a decade’s worth of films, following precedent set by Daniel’s 16-year tenure . Whoever is cast is signing up not only for the long haul but also opens themselves up to huge criticism from a picky public. Barbara commented that even our now-beloved 007 faced ‘anti-Daniel nonsense’ when he was first announced.
‘Every time we cast a new actor, the films change. It’s the excitement of a new Bond, a new direction,’ Michael added. ‘Every one of these people who took on the role offered something new and different.
’ Daniel finished his run as 007 in 2021 and despite early indications of a quick handover, fans are still in limbo over the future of Bond. In June 2022, Barbara told Deadline: ‘There isn’t a script and we can’t come up with one until we decide how we’re going to approach the next film because, really, it’s a reinvention of Bond. ‘We’re reinventing who he is, and that takes time.
I’d say that filming is at least two years away.’ Aaron Taylor-Johnson is still considered the favourite for the role , despite the fact a source firmly denied his involvement in March when the speculation reached fever pitch. More Trending This surprising film is already tipped to become the ‘best of 2025’ Bridget Jones 4 trailer reveals shattering 'comedy of grief' for singleton heroine The major new James Bond contenders as 007 odds change 80s James Bond actor, 78, unrecognisable in rare sighting Hot on the Kraven star’s tail is Bridgerton’s Regé-Jean Page , The Gentlemen star Theo James , and Kingsman icon Taron Egerton .
Leo Woodall was a surprise new entry into the Bond race , having stunned viewers in White Lotus and Netflix’s One Day. He’s continuing to make waves as he stars opposite Renée Zellweger in the final installment of the beloved romantic comedy series Bridget Jones . Got a story? If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.
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