MOVIE NEWS – Charlie Higson, entrusted by Ian Fleming’s estate to continue the 007 novels, responds to the latest casting rumors.

Charlie Higson, the author of James Bond, addresses the recent gossip surrounding the sought-after role of 007. Over the years, numerous actors have played Bond, starting with Sean Connery in 1962’s Dr. No. The dashing super spy has also been portrayed by George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan, and Daniel Craig. Craig’s most recent role as Bond concluded with 2021’s No Time to Die, opening the door for a new actor to assume the part, with gossip targeting Hollywood’s finest.

Higson, entrusted by Fleming’s estate to continue writing the James Bond novels, now addresses the recent casting rumors surrounding the role (via The Telegraph). The author claims there’s a simple way to determine who has been turned down. Here are Higson’s remarks on the James Bond casting process:

As soon as the newspapers report that someone is being considered for the next James Bond role, you can be sure they won’t be the next James Bond. You know they’ve been turned down.

Who Could Be the Next James Bond? Recent speculation has linked Game of Thrones and Citadel star Richard Madden to the role of the next James Bond. An enigmatic video suggested he was covertly announcing his casting, but no official confirmation has been received. Nevertheless, Madden has gained supporters who believe he would be an excellent fit for the notorious spy.

Kick-Ass and Bullet Train star Aaron Taylor-Johnson was rumored to be a strong contender not long ago, with the actor set to return as Kraven the Hunter in Sony’s Spider-Man universe. Other actors named in various James Bond casting rumors include Idris Elba, Tom Hardy, Taron Egerton, Daniel Kaluuya, Tom Holland, Dev Patel, and Tom Hiddleston. However, each name has only fueled further speculation, despite each candidate offering a unique fit for the role.

Previously, there was talk of gender-swapping James Bond, allowing for a female-led film, but that doesn’t seem to be the case. If Higson’s claims are accurate, all the actors rumored to be in the running have likely been turned down. Additionally, no official release date has been set for the next James Bond film, with producer Barbara Broccoli stating, “It’s going to be a couple of years off.” More details on the casting of James Bond and the next 007 movie will be revealed as the project progresses.

Source: ScreenRant