Challengers actor Josh O’Connor has become the new front runner to take on the role of James Bond – taking over from most recent 007 star Daniel Craig who last appeared in 2021
Josh O’Connor has been linked to the role of James Bond in a move that has rocked bookies predictions.
The 34-year-old British actor has had a stunning year – winning acclaim for his role in the Golden Globe nominated film Challengers which he starred in opposite Zendaya and Mike Faist. And while Josh has a number of impressive film and TV roles under his belt, and a raft of projects set to be released, new rumours abound that the actor will portray one of the most iconic roles in Hollywood.
The actor is now tipped to be playing James Bond in the next film in the long-running franchise, taking the reigns from former star Daniel Craig. Since the Tomb Raider bowed out of playing the MI6 spy in 2021’s No Time To Die, a string of names have been linked with the role to take over – with Idris Elba, Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Theo James all linked to the show.
But now Josh has emerged as the hot favourite to take over the role – with Bond producer Barbara Broccoli reportedly hand picking him to take up the mantle. The 64-year-old movie boss has singled him out because he has balanced the fine line between being recognisable, yet ambiguous.
Hello! Magazine reports: “Josh O’Connor is reportedly the producer’s top choice due to his charisma, charm, and ability to deliver sharp one-liners effortlessly. A source close to the production described him as ‘familiar but not too familiar’ to audiences, fitting the criteria for a fresh yet recognisable Bond.” The Mirror has contacted Josh’s representatives for comment.
It has already been three years since the last Bond film was released – and fans have been desperate to know who would be taking over the role next. Barbara Broccoli herself spoke out about the expectations surrounding the next star to take on the role, telling the Associated Press: “It’s a big decision.”
The producer went on to confirm that the next actor to play James Bond will be “a man” – and added: “He’ll likely be in his 30s. Whiteness is not a given.” It was also explained that whichever actor lands the role would be expected to sign up to decade’s worth of films.
Barbara’s brother Michael G Wilson, who co-produces the Bond films, explained that the team behind the franchise are always looking for someone to being a fresh element to the films. He said: “Every time we cast a new actor, the films change. It’s the excitement of a new Bond, a new direction… Every one of these people who took on the role offered something new and different.”
Past Bonds are Sean Connery, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton and Pierce Brosnan. The actor David Niven has also played the role – in the 1967 spoof film Casino Royale.
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