James Bond producer addresses rumors that there’s already a frontrunner as the new 007

Image via Sony Pictures

2021 no time to die was a very coherent final adventure for Daniel Craig James Bond. The actor has successfully redefined what 007 could be in the modern era, delivering a killer performance, ambitious action scenes and a ridiculous amount of style and panache. Ever since his Bond went up in smoke, fans have been eagerly awaiting who will be next in the tuxedo.

The rumor mill has been eagerly spouting names that appear to be under consideration, with front runners including Henry Cavill, Tom Hardy, Idris Elba, Jack O’Connell, Harry Styles and Regé-Jean Page. It seems that this is all just speculation because, according to producer Barbara Broccoli, casting hasn’t even started after she was quizzed by LADBible on the BAFTAs red carpet.

“No, we haven’t even started casting yet. There isn’t even a script.”

We assume that they will probably choose a younger actor. Craig was 38 when he did this Casino royale and 51 in manufacturing no time to die, with his character arc focusing on his age and the strains his action-packed job puts on his body. Bond producers will likely want to sign someone on at least four films, and the stately pace of the franchise’s development means they’re looking for a 15-year commitment.

We suspect they don’t want to repeat the same story as the last Bond, so maybe we’ll see them emulate the classic Connery formula and cast an actor in his early 30s. Anyhow, it looks like an announcement is still a long way off, although as always…

James Bond will return.