Michael Fassbender is reflecting on his past experience auditioning for the iconic role of James Bond, sharing details about how he once suggested Daniel Craig for the position during his own audition for cCasino Royale. During his recent appearance on the podcast cHappy Sad Confused, Fassbender admitted, I met with Barbara Broccoli just you know through passing and I actually went in to an audition phase before Daniel [Craig] was cast, but I dont think I was ever in the mix.
While reminiscing, the actor noted how he surprisingly found himself recommending Craig, saying, I was like, cDaniel Craig is... I dont know why I was promoting him. I should have been promoting myself.
Fassbender's audition for the groundbreaking reboot of the franchise came as the search for the next James Bond intensified following Pierce Brosnan's tenure. He candidly reflected on his audition experiences, admitting, This is what I was saying. I was terrible at auditions. He recalled another audition—this time for cMad Max: Fury Road, where he bombed not due to skill, but rather by arriving at the Warner Bros. lot over one hour late.
Despite his self-deprecatory remarks, Fassbender recognized Craig's immense success, declaring, Obviously Daniel did a fantastic job and went on to be, I think, the most successful Bond in history. Craig's tenure included five films, culminating with cNo Time to Die, and has left big shoes to fill for the next actor.
Another noteworthy name often speculated about during Bond's casting process is Henry Cavill, who had auditioned during the same period. According to Martin Campbell, the director of cCasino Royale, Cavill's audition was exceptional. Campbell remarked to Express UK, He looked great in the audition. His acting was tremendous. And look, if Daniel didnt exist, Henry would have made an excellent Bond. He just looked a little young at the time.
While the casting search continues, Fassbender appears to have reservations about his own chances. While discussing his own viability for the role, he quipped, I think it's over. Nonetheless, he did throw out some potential candidates for the coveted role. I like Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Regé [Jean Page] whos in this movie. I think after people see his performance, he could be a frontrunner, Fassbender suggested, referring to Page's upcoming film, cBlack Bag.
Fassbender's character, George Woodhouse, is assigned to investigate potential treason involving his wife, adding intrigue to his latest project. cBlack Bag also stars Cate Blanchett, Naomie Harris, Tom Burke, and Pierce Brosnan, and is scheduled for release on March 14, 2025.
The conversation on cHappy Sad Confused has reignited talk of who could take on the Bond role next after Craig made his exit from the franchise. Each new leading man sparks excitement, but Craig's legacy of five successful films creates pressure to find the right fit.
For fans and critics alike, the debate over which direction the Bond franchise should take is buzzing, with various actors including Taylor-Johnson and Page among those highlighted. Despite the very public auditions and speculation, the producers remain tight-lipped as the franchise navigates entering its next phase.