It’s that time again, time for a new actor to take the keys to the Aston Martin, to get that tuxedo cleaned, and to save the world. And let’s face it: the word definitely needs saving. So, now that Daniel Craig has formally – mortally – retired from the role who’s up to the task?
We’ve taken a look at the contenders…
- Regé-Jean Page
Pros: If simply being a handsome, eligible bachelor who’s popular with the ladies is top of the list of requirements then Bridgerton’s Page could be the man. A change of direction after Craig’s gritty spy.
Cons: Little track record in looking mean, and is he tough enough to fight his way through some henchman? And he’s perhaps a little too handsome.
- Richard Madden
Pros: Well, Bodyguard certainly proved he has the chops when it comes to looking tough in a suit. And his role as romantic war hero Robb Stark in Game of Thrones can’t have hurt.
Cons: Not many, although he has always discredited any connection. A strong contender.
- Henry Cavill
Pros: Considered too young at 22-years old when Craig got the top job, Cavill could now be the perfect Bond. Ruggedly handsome, mature and experienced as an actor and you certainly wouldn’t want to fight him
Cons: Would he want to it? Bond is a commitment and Cavill has had no difficulty in securing good roles from Napoleon Solo to August Walker. And can you really be Superman and James Bond?
- Tom Hardy
Pros: Would continue the dark, tough edge to the character, looks good in a suit and perhaps one of the few on this list who could guarantee box-office following Craig’s success. And he brings credibility.
Cons: Similar to Cavill in many ways. Although, his venture into the Marvel Universe with Venom has shown he’s up for something different.
- James Norton
Pros: Adaptable and varied in his roles, Norton seems to have a bit of everything. He’s young enough to carry the franchise for some time, and like others on this list, would indicate a distinct change from the Craig Bond.
Cons: We just can’t see it somehow. He seems nice and all, but Bond is a big job, and one we fear too big for young James.
- Jamie Dornan
Pros: Can pull off charming (Fifty Shades – sort of) and has a darker edge (The Fall) so seems to have all the necessary attributes. Would be an interesting choice.
Cons: Does he have enough star power? And would he want it. Seems to enjoy pursuing different roles.
- Cillian Murphy
Pros: Definitely has the star power and acting chops for the role, and would bring a different slant to the character. Think less muscles and more brooding malevolence.
Cons: At 45 -years old this could be a bit late for him if the producers are looking for an actor to carry the role over several films. And does he have the physical stature?
- Michael Fassbender
Pros: He’s Michael Fassbender
Cons: Very few. After all, he’s Michael Fassbender.
Other contenders?
- Sam Heughan – would be a decent, if safe choice
- Henry Golding – see no. 9
- Robert Pattinson – now, that would be interesting
- Lashana Lynch – more likely a spin-off
- Idris Elba – too old perhaps?
- Dan Stevens – a big outsider
- Tom Hiddleston – too nice?
- Aidan Turner – see no. 9
- David Oyelowo – would be a thoughtful Bond
- Jamie Bell – like him, but we can’t see it sadly
- Daniel Craig – stranger things have happened
- Gillian Anderson – now, who wouldn’t want to see this Bond??
