Tom Hiddleston has had a cracking year so far, with BBC spy drama ‘The Night Manager’ becoming a massive hit and bringing him even more fans than he had before, thanks to his big screen incarnation of flawed superhero Loki in the ‘Thor’ films.
Not only that, but he’s become the fans’ favourite to be the next James Bond, once Daniel Craig confirms he’s hanging up the licence to kill.
So, all in all, it’s not looking too shabby for the debonaire Old Etonian. However, it seems he’s not bullet-proof when it comes to box office, with the takings for his recent biopic ‘I Saw The Light’ less than stellar.
Tom acted his socks off, even singing the songs, to play country music star Hank Williams, but it seems that wasn’t enough to get enough bums on cinema seats.
The film took a measly £17,059 on its opening weekend, despite a massive publicity push including yet another appearance of Tom’s bashful grin on Graham Norton’s sofa.
Topping the UK box office instead? 'Captain America: Civil War’, which took another £4.8million to add to its bounty. Looks like Tom might want to go back to superheroes for now.
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.