'James Bond' Star Almost Named? Why New 007 Will Make Franchise History, If Ever
There is still no word on who will play the next James Bond.
Idris Elba, on the other hand, is back in the running for the coveted position and is in fresh discussions to take it on.
The London-born actor has previously declined to take over for Daniel Craig, instead discussing the possibility of portraying a villain in the next film.
However, The Sun said that "The Harder They Fall" actor is being considered for the role of James Bond after performing well in polls.
"Idris has long been in negotiations to play a role in the next period of James Bond's tale and was being considered for a role as an antagonist last year," a source says.
"However, negotiations surrounding him being the lead have resumed as producers recognized how popular he would be after conducting covert market research," they continued.
The film's producers apparently do not regard Elba as a foe, but rather as a hero.
If Elba is cast as the next James Bond, he will be the first Black actor to fill the role. According to reports, the producers are open to a Black or Asian Bond. They claim, however, that the spy will remain a British citizen.
Daniel Craig stepped down following his fifth appearance as the famed spy in last year's "No Time To Die."
A few months ago, producer Barbara Broccoli admitted that Idris Elba was considered for the role of James Bond, even calling him a "magnificent performer."
The espionage agent is a "hugely sought, famous, beloved figure that takes fans on this big escapist journey," according to "The Mountain Between Us" actor in 2019.
"Of course, if someone asked me, 'Do you want to be James Bond?' I'd respond, 'Yeah!'" he said.
Actors Rumored to Play James Bond
Per the Independent, Tom Hardy is speculated to portray James Bond, and he has even spoken out about the speculations, stating that he couldn't comment on it yet.
Regé-Jean Page, a former "Bridgerton" actor, is also vying for the job.
He informed Jimmy Fallon that he likes reading the news and that he is being considered to play Agent 007.
Tom Hiddleston is also being considered for the part.
Mike Fassbender is another favorite to play Bond, but he has previously ruled himself out because he feels a younger actor would be more suited.
Henry Cavill allegedly auditioned for the part in his twenties but was not cast. If the film's producers were interested in him, the "Superman" star would "certainly leap at the opportunity."
