Idris Elba says James Bond rumors were 'never legit'
Los Angeles, June 8
English actor Idris Elba has broken his silence on the reports surrounding 'James Bond', and has put all James Bond rumors to rest.
The 53-year-old acclaimed actor, who tends to play heroic characters and currently stars in 'Masters of the Universe' alongside Nicholas Galitzine, has been tipped to take over the 007 role since before Daniel Craig's departure in 2021, reports 'Variety'.
The actor said that the rumors were "never legit". He told GQ, "I've always felt that it's not a realistic thing. James Bond was written how he was written for a reason. But I was complimented by it. And also, I think, in realistic terms, some markets just don't go for that. James Bond is big all over the world. And (audiences) won't (all) go for a Black male, an African male, playing Bond. That's not what they like in their culture. Period".
He also said he doesn't necessarily think that James Bond should change, as he said, "James Bond is so unrealistic, so a hint of reality is good, but let's not try and make it woke. I think you've got to be pure to what it is: escapism. Don't try and answer the world's taste. Just be James Bond".
As per 'Variety', the rumour mill as to who will be the next Bond has been heating up as auditions have officially started.
Prolific casting director Nina Gold is leading the charge for Amazon MGM Studios, who took creative control of the franchise last year. The next Bond movie is set to be directed by "Dune" helmer Denis Villeneuve, and Variety has heard that he and the studio are looking for someone on the younger side to step into James Bond's shoes.
Tom Francis, the 26-year-old British actor best known for his Olivier-winning role opposite Nicole Scherzinger in the stage musical 'Sunset Boulevard', has already auditioned, a source told Variety last month. Other stars heavily rumored to be in the mix include Jacob Elordi, Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Callum Turner.
— IANS
Reader Comments
I actually think Idris would've been a phenomenal Bond – suave, rugged, magnetic. His point about "markets not going for it" is sadly true though. In many parts of India, people would struggle to accept a non-white Bond. It's a reminder of how much subconscious bias still exists globally. We need more original diverse action heroes, not just replacing existing white ones. 🎬
Finally someone in Hollywood says it like it is. Bond IS escapism – part of its magic is the very male, very British fantasy. Trying to make it 'woke' just ruins the brand. That said, Idris is a class act for how he's handled this. Give him a different spy franchise of his own – I'd watch that! 🇬🇧
Honestly refreshing to see a celebrity being this blunt. In India we have similar debates about historical figures or cultural icons being recast – there's often resistance. I get Idris' point, but I also think audiences are more open than he gives credit for. Look at how global fans embraced Black Panther. Anyway, good luck to whoever steps into those shoes next! 🍿
I think he's being a bit too cautious. Yes Bond is escapism, but it's also evolved. Pierce Brosnan to Daniel Craig is a huge shift in tone – why not a shift in race? That said, Idris at 53 is maybe a bit old for a multi-film commitment. The younger generation of actors he mentioned might be better for longevity. Still, what a gentleman to step aside gracefully.
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