It has been over three years since the release of Daniel Craig’s final outing as James Bond in ‘No Time To Die’ - with the actor confirming that he was hanging up his tux. Since then there has been no letup in the speculation over who will succeed him in one of the world’s biggest film franchises, following in the footsteps of Sean Connery, David Niven, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, and Pierce Brosnan - as well as Craig himself. And there have also been no shortage of rumours as to the plot, the rest of the cast and who will be behind the camera for ‘Bond 26’. Then earlier this year, all bets were off when Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson signed over creative control to streaming giant Amazon. Here are all the latest rumours and theories about what’s next for 007.
There have been numerous favourites to be the next James Bond over the last couple of years - from Paul Mescal to Idris Elba. Currently, Aaron Taylor-Johnson is the hot tip, followed by Henry Cavill, James Norton, and Richard Madden. In fact, Taylor-Johnson has generated significant buzz, with early speculation suggesting he could take over the iconic role.
Interestingly, Lashana Lynch is already noted as the first female 007, as her character Nomi took on the codename in ‘No Time To Die.’ The shift towards a female Bond has become a hot topic, sparking debates among fans and critics alike about keeping or changing the tradition.
As for the villains, the best James Bond films have a long history of great baddies. The bookies' favourite to play Bond's next enemy is Irish actor Colin Farrell, whose past roles have showcased his versatility and charm.
Behind the camera, it's considered a prestigious honour to direct a James Bond film. Current speculation hints that Oscar-winner Steve McQueen could take the helm for the upcoming film. Other notable directors in the frame reportedly include 'Barbie' director Greta Gerwig and 'Conclave' director Edward Berger, adding an intriguing dynamic to the franchise's future.
But amidst the buzz of potential actors and directors, another name has surfaced in the conversation: Sope Dirisu. Although he may not be a household name yet, the actor has generated interest for his role as Elliot, the undercover cop in ‘Gangs of London,’ whose third series premiered recently. In addition to his work on that series, Dirisu has also played a security chief in the third season of 'Slow Horses,' and starred as Coriolanus for the Royal Shakespeare Company in 2017. This remarkable trajectory in his career certainly makes him a contender.
Dirisu, who is currently rehearsing for Ionesco’s play 'Rhinoceros' at the Almeida Theatre in North London, laughs at the speculation, noting that he appreciates the attention but is proud of his own unique path. Is he ready to step into the iconic shoes of 007? Time will tell, as the anticipation builds.
As fans eagerly await the announcement of the next James Bond, they grapple with the pros and cons of what's to come. Whether it will be Taylor-Johnson, Lynch, or an unexpected contender like Dirisu, the future of 007 remains uncertain but certainly exciting.
In conclusion, the James Bond franchise is at a crossroads. Following Craig's departure and the transfer of creative control to Amazon, the choices for the next chapter of 007 are more open than ever. With a host of new talent potentially stepping in and a vibrant conversation around tradition versus innovation, the legacy of Bond continues to evolve.
In a world that loves cinematic heroes, fans can only wait with bated breath for the next announcement, hoping for a decision that pays homage to the past while setting the stage for an exhilarating future.
