Idris Elba has spoken about the prospect of becoming the next James Bond, revealing he considers himself “too old” for the role of the big screen super spy.
The ‘Luther’ star was talking to ‘Good Morning America’ when he was asked directly about his chances of replacing Daniel Craig in the role.
He said: “It’s the wildest rumour in the world” and revealed he’d never been in talks with bosses of the 007 franchise.
He added: “If I’m really honest, man, I think I’m too old for that, I can’t be running around in cars and ladies and martinis – who wants to do that? It sounds terrible!”
This could be seen as rather disingenuous of Idris, particularly as, at 43 years old, he is actually five years younger than Daniel Craig, who looked perfectly capable of performing those tasks in ‘Spectre’, his most recent film in the series.
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Here's a picture of Idris in a tux, just to help out the Bond producers
Stuart C. Wilson via Getty Images
And Idris was perhaps making a veiled plea to be considered, adding: “If it were to happen, it would be the will of a nation, because there’s not been talks of me in the studios about any of that. But everywhere I go, people want that to happen.”
Barbara Broccoli, are you listening?
Meanwhile, if Idris isn’t interested in the role, there are plenty who are. Only two days ago, Australian star Chris Hemsworth said he’d gladly pick up the Bond baton. “’I don’t know many who wouldn’t jump at that,” he told Australia’s Daily Telegraph. He wouldn’t be the first Antipodean in the role, following George Lazenby’s one-off contribution in ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service’ in 1969.
Tap our picture below to open the slideshow:
The Next James Bond Is One Of These...
Damian Lewis(01 of14)
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The first red-headed James Bond?
Idris Elba(02 of14)
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So many people have asked him about it, Idris will no longer discuss the subject. But while Pierce Brosnan remarked Bond boss Barbara Broccoli wouldn't be happy with a Black Bond, she told HuffPostUK, "I don't know what Pierce is talking about."
Tom Hardy(03 of14)
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Arguably too rugged for the corridors of Westminster where James Bond has to defend his actions, but very, very popular.
Chiwetel Ejiofor(04 of14)
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Another actor who's been asked so many times, now he just smiles when asked.
Tom Hiddleston(05 of14)
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If pouting were all that is required, Tom Hiddleston would go straight to Vauxhall Bridge.
Clive Owen(06 of14)
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Has proved he has the required steeliness in any number of big screen roles, but success Stateside might make him no longer willing to commit.
Douglas Booth(07 of14)
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No gun or martial arts skills required, he can just look at them, and wait for submission.
John Boyega(08 of14)
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What the 'Star Wars' star may lack in stature, he more than makes up for in enthusiasm and appeal. Although the Bond villains might just want to cuddle him.
Taron Egerton(09 of14)
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Proved his action hero chops in 'Kingsman: Secret Service' and signing him now would mean Barbara Broccoli and co wouldn't have to worry again for at least a decade.
Michael Fassbender(10 of14)
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Like Pierce Brosnan, Irish charm could help the 'Steve Jobs' star int the role.
Sam Claflin(11 of14)
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The 'Hunger Games' star represents the best of British.
Tom Hughes(12 of14)
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Who, you ask? Set to play Prince Albert against Jenna Coleman in the forthcoming 'Victoria' TV series, Tom has already proven himself a master of espionage in 'The Game' and 'Page Eight', both on TV. When not if he gets the call, don't say we didn't give you the heads up...
Aidan Turner(13 of14)
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Aidan has made a legion of fans with his role of Ross Poldark, but it was his surprising turn in 'And Then There Were None' that really proved he could be enigmatic and dashing. (credit:PA)
Jeremy Clarkson(14 of14)
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... or alternatively, don't say we didn't warn you.