The hunt for the next James Bond seems like a never-ending quest. While actors like Henry Cavill, Idris Elba, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Regé-Jean Page, and Tom Hardy are the generally favored fan-favorites, new names are being thrown into the mix daily. Die-hard enthusiasts of the franchise cannot wait for the ultimate verdict.
Following Daniel Craig’s departure as this generation’s undisputed Bond, the requirements for the next 007 inevitably decreased the likelihood that many well-liked top picks would make the shortlist. That doesn’t stop the audience (and revered Hollywood stars) from rooting for their preferred choices.
Renowned actor Sam Neill, who was once a front-runner for the James Bond role in the 1980s, recently announced his top picks. Spoiler alert: It’s not Henry Cavil.
Sam Neill Was A James Bond Frontrunner In The 1980s
Daniel Craig’s depiction of Ian Fleming’s acclaimed British Secret Service agent offered audiences a new glimpse into the character. It was a profound exploration that dared to traverse the emotional depth of James Bond. Craig’s journey as 007 started with 2006’s Casino Royale and concluded with 2021’s No Time To Die. The next iteration of the iconic character would require an actor who’s competent enough to match the previous rendition, if not outperform it.
With the latest criteria set by producer Michael G. Wilson suggesting a “thirty-something” Bond, one of the actors preferred by Sam Neill may fail to qualify for the role but it’s an intriguing recommendation either way. The Jurassic World Dominion star would know a thing or two about the casting process for the endeavor as he was once a frontrunner for the acclaimed role. Following Roger Moore’s exit from the franchise with 1985’s A View to a Kill, three names in particular were eyed for the part.
Besides Pierce Brosnan and Timothy Dalton, Sam Neill left a strong impression on the James Bond producers. Alas, Dalton was the one ultimately chosen for 1987’s The Living Daylights. This didn’t upset Neill at all. He was instead quite relieved at not being picked for the part. On a separate occasion, the actor remarked that he had reluctantly auditioned for the endeavor and was glad to have been deprived of the role.
Reminiscing his “excruciating” James Bond audition, Neill told The Telegraph:
“It was one rather excruciating moment in a long career but people keep asking me about the Bond thing. And I can only say I’m very glad I’m not an ex-Bond but I do have a couple of recommendations.”
Sam Neill picked an unexpected actor to play the next James Bond, deviating from a traditional, fan-favorite choice like Henry Cavill. We can say with certainty that Neill’s pick is highly intriguing, regardless of whether his favored candidate becomes a potential contender.
Not Henry Cavill, Rob Collins Is Sam Neill’s Top Pick For James Bond
Unveiling his top pick for the next 007, Sam Neill mentioned 44-year-old Australian indigenous actor Rob Collins in the interview. Instead of going for the more popular fan casts, like Henry Cavill, Tom Hardy, James Norton, or Aaron Taylor-Johnson, the legendary actor desires to see the franchise shake things up a bit. Take a look:
“[Rob Collins is] an indigenous actor, extremely handsome, and really good. He’d shake things up a bit.”
While his age and nationality (the producers want the next James Bond to be played by a Brit) may hinder his stature as a potential contender, Cleverman alum Rob Collins’ inclusion in the 007 race would be interesting to see! It’s a breath of fresh air amongst the fan-favorite candidates that keep making headlines daily.
Read also: Henry Cavill is Already in 4 Franchises after Leaving The Witcher & DCU
Another star that Sam Neill thinks would be a good choice for the role is 33-year-old Scottish actor, Jack Lowden.
We’ve seen an influx in the list of favored contenders to play the next Bond. Along with the highly-anticipated, conventional picks of Henry Cavill and Tom Hardy, several lesser-known actors have been added to the roster. To enumerate all the names on two hands would be impossible. In light of this, it is crucial to keep in mind that an actor’s popularity or status as a specific celebrity’s “top pick” won’t have much of an influence on the final choice. Nothing is guaranteed right now.
It would be interesting to see what the future holds for James Bond enthusiasts.
Source: The Telegraph
