Idris Elba says James Bond rumours 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 rumours 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
Idris is being honest about the reality of global markets. In India, Bond films are huge, but let's be real—a Black Bond would face resistance in many parts of Asia and the Middle East. It's not about racism, it's about audience expectations. But I wish they'd cast someone more mature than a 26-year-old! That's the real shocker for me 😅
Respect to Idris for being so grounded about this. He could have milked the rumours for publicity, but instead he gave a measured, honest take. That said, I disagree that Bond shouldn't evolve. The character has changed with the times before—from Connery to Brosnan to Craig. A Black Bond could work if done right, but I understand his perspective.
Wait, Denis Villeneuve is directing? That's the real news here! Forget Bond casting, imagine the visual spectacle of a Villeneuve Bond film. He did Dune and Blade Runner 2049—this could be epic. As for Elba, he's too old anyway at 53. Let the young guns have a shot. Aaron Taylor-Johnson would be perfect, very Brosnan-esque. 🎬
I actually appreciate Idris Elba's honesty here. He's not playing the victim or playing into the narrative—he's just stating facts. The "woke" comment might ruffle some feathers, but he's right: Bond is escapism. Why can't we just enjoy a good spy movie without turning it into a social statement? Let the casting directors do their job.
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