This year marks the last time James Bond fans will see Daniel Craig as the legendary spy, 007. After 15 years in the tuxedo, and five films full of butt-kicking, the 53-year-old has bowed out of the legendary role following his latest film, No Time To Die. A number of actors have been named in the Bond odds to take over from Craig, and now Luther star Elba has spoken out about whether it will be him or not.
Currently, Elba has impressive odds of 8/1 with Ladbrokes on taking the role – slashed from 10/1 last week.
The firm’s Jessica O’Reilly said: “Since the No Time To Die premiere bets have been coming in thick and fast for Idris Elba, and should the support continue we’ll be forced to slash his odds once again.”
But during the premiere for Elba’s new Netflix movie, The Harder They Fall, the star was asked if he would play the spy and he appeared to rule himself out of the running.
He replied: “No I’m not going to be James Bond.”
READ MORE: James Bond: Daniel Craig delivers blunt response to new 007 casting
Elba was then asked if he would at least like to take the role. He responded: “Who wouldn’t?”
He went on: “How amazing would it be to have a Black James Bond? It’s a sign of the times when we can stop talking about black, white, and colour.”
So far, in 25 films, James Bond has always been portrayed by a white actor.
This is something that isn’t set in stone, however, according to Bond boss Barbara Broccoli.
The frontrunner for the next Bond actor is currently Tom Hardy with 5/2 from Ladbrokes.
He is followed closely by British-Zimbabwean star Regé-Jean Page – best known for Bridgerton – with 3/1.
Black British star Lashana Lynch is shortly behind with 5/1 – however, considering Broccoli doesn’t want a woman in the role, her odds may soon dwindle.
Craig was recently asked about who he would want to take over from him going forward.
The actor responded: “Not my problem.”
When asked if he would miss the franchise, he replied: “Sure, yeah.”
James Bond No Time To Die is in cinemas now.
