Cillian Murphy is basking in the glory of his Oscar win as Best Actor for his performance in Oppenheimer, and this feat has impressed a lot of people, especially the James Bond producers. Yes, the Irish-born star is reportedly in the running now to become 007.
It’s been quite sometime now since Daniel Craig ended his tenure in the spy movie franchise, and producer Barbara Broccoli and her team have been on the lookout for the next actor to portray the famed British agent.
James Bond Producers Reportedly Captivated By Cillian Murphy’s Performance
Cillian Murphy’s victory at the Academy Awards already spells more opportunities for him in the movie industry. In his acceptance speech, he calls himself “a very proud Irishman” as he humbly took the award.
Now, a new report from The Sun relates that Murphy’s performance in Oppenheimer wowed the studio bosses of James Bond, and he is now the frontrunner for the coveted role.
“Cillian is the toast of Hollywood right now, and this would be the ultimate role. This is a way to elevate the Bond franchise with an actor who is at the very top of his game.”
Even his co-star in Oppenheimer, Clay Bunker, believes he has the capability of taking on the mantle and bringing to life a different version of James Bond. He told the same outlet:
“Cillian is the nicest human, but he has that dark side, and there’s a darkness to Bond. We forget that sometimes Bond is like the character Fleming created — a pretty dark character. He just happens to be on the side that we call good.”
Murphy’s other notable works include BBC’s Peaky Blinders and Warner Bros’ Batman Begins, both of which he displayed a wide range of acting prowess. Bunker thinks the actor has an innate sense of darkness that he can tap into when needed.
“Cillian has that ability to tap into that. We’ve seen that in something like Peaky Blinders, even in Batman when he is playing Scarecrow — the myriad of other films he’s done. But he himself has goodness. He’s got a focus thing, which is very James Bond as well.”
However, Murphy does not think he would fit the bill. In his interview with Hello Magazine, he admits being “a bit too old for that,” pertaining to the role of James Bond. Interestingly, that’s the same hindrance that’s blocking Henry Cavill from taking on the part.
Is Cillian Murphy Too Old To Become James Bond?
James Bond producers have noted before that they are looking for a slightly younger actor who can commit to the franchise for at least ten years. While Henry Cavill has been a top contender, he is already 40 years old.
Cillian Murphy, on the other hand, is 47, even way past the preferred age limit. With the recent news of the Oppenheimer actor being eyed for James Bond, fans think he would rather make a good villain:
He’s 47. A bit late to start
— The Film Jump (@thefilmjump) March 10, 2024
He's already stated himself he's too old for the role.
— Gemini ☠️ 🇮🇪 🇪🇺 (@IrishItalian88) March 10, 2024
He doesn't have the look.
Isn't he close to 50? That also means only one or two films from him.
— Jay McGill Says End White Privilege and Nepotism!! (@Jay_McGill94) March 10, 2024
I’m betting this is absolutely false. They’re not looking to start the next leg of this franchise with an actor that’s 47. They’ve even stated they want someone in their 30’s.
— Heather Greenspan (@NotPurfect07) March 11, 2024
As a Bond villain: yes. As 007? Depends what route they want to go down. Would certainly be a change of style: less action, more nuanced?
— A$tinBSc 🇺🇳🇪🇺🌍🦊 🇵🇸🇫🇮 (@DrewNista) March 11, 2024
Have you seen how long of a gap there is between Bond films?? If they announced it today it wouldn’t come out until 2026 at the earliest where he’s basically 50. Then he’d be close to 55 by the time his 2nd and probably last one released…next choice…
— Colin (@Collsy84) March 10, 2024
While Murphy has expressed disinterest in the role, fans still hope he would reconsider joining the franchise given the majority wants him to portray a Bond villain.
