Speculation on who will replaceDaniel Craigas007is again ramping up as betting on the new James Bond has been suspended, according toMetro. Craig was a seemingly out-of-left-field choice for the character at the time, with many criticizing the casting even before his first adventure hit the big screen. Of course, onceCasino Royaledid make its way to the big screen,fans' worries were swiftly put to rest. Now, it will be up to an all-new actor to live up to the legacy, and while speculation continues to run rampant, the suspension of any betting suggests that the bookies may be privy to some insider information, and that all-new actor may now have been found.
No Time to Die
Following Craig’s departure from the 007 role in 2021’sNo Time to Die, one of the major names in contention for the next James Bond, a name that has been circling the role for a long time, is Idris Elba. Of course, while he’d be a great fit, theLutherandThe Suicide Squadstar hasremoved his own name from consideration. So, if Elba is out, who’s left?
Who Are the Top Contenders for the Next James Bond?
The other big name that’s been widely speculated as being up for the role of Bond isKraven the Hunterand David Leitch favorite Aaron Taylor-Johnson. Taylor-Johnson displayed style to spare in the aforementioned director’s recent action outingBullet Train, giving Bond vibes more often than not (though it’d be an even more unethical and even more murderous 007), but when rumors swirled thathe’d signed on back in March, they were shot down.
The names currently considered the most likely are Regé-Jean Page, Damson Idris, Theo James, Leo Woodall, and, still, Aaron Taylor-Johnson. All of them would be solid and, frankly, they’re all just about equally likely. Why? Charm, looks, and stars very much on the rise and potentially looking to join a major franchise like James Bond.
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Taylor-Johnson is still the likely bet, with odds hovering consistently around 4/5. But, while he’snow wrapped on28 Years Later, there’s stillKraven the Hunter’s potential success to take into consideration. People don’t sign on to lead a Marvel property for just one movie, even if that movie takes place outside the MCU. Given the mixed-to-positive response to theR-rated actioner’s most recent trailer, it’s safe to say that it will at the very least outperformMadame Web(not exactly a high bar to clear). It might even be a surprise hit and, if that’s the case, its sequel would likely become the actor’s priority given contract requirements.
So, if he can’t do it, who’s the next best bet? Page would be a great choice, as he saw his star skyrocket during his short time onBridgertonand displayed plenty of swagger inDungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves. Idris (Damson Idris, that is), has theupcoming F1 movie led by Brad Pittthat should do quite a bit to boost his profile. As for James, he’s a likable presence who can play the role of tough guy, as seen in Guy Ritchie’s series adaptation ofThe Gentlemenbut, like with Taylor-Johnson there’s a contractual obligation to consider now thata second season has been confirmed. This leaves Woodall, who will soon have a role in the fourthBridget Jonesmovie, but he’s certainly the long shot of the bunch.
Our figurative money’s on either Taylor-Johnson or Page, but don’t count out James. For now, we’ll just have to wait and see, but it sure sounds like we could be close to finding out who will be chosen to don the iconic tux.
