The question of who will become the next James Bond is a burning curiosity among fans as they hope to find an answer for it in the upcoming year. As Daniel Craig bid the character adieu in No Time to Die some years prior, the speculation intensified over whether he was truly prepared to pass on the baton. In a 2021 interview with Lorraine Kelly, the actor discussed potential successors for the franchise, revealing his staunch opposition to the idea of Hugh Jackman taking on the iconic role.
Daniel Craig Will Never Pass the Hat to Hugh Jackman to Play James Bond!
As Daniel Craig sifted through potential successors in his chat with Lorraine Kelly, the atmosphere was nothing short of uproarious. When the topic shifted to assessing Hugh Jackman as a possible heir, Craig’s response was a comedic gem.
Jackman posted a clip of that specific moment when Craig discussed whether Jackman would fit the bill on Instagram. In the clip, Craig stated,
“He’s not going to be it,–Over my dead body,”
The banter between them continued as Jackman shared the clip with a caption, extending the playful exchange,
“Well … that kills that rumor! Daniel, mate, you will always be @007 to me. #notimetodie. I’m IN. @lorrainekellysmith.”
While the banter between the actors was clearly in jest in this scenario, the truth is, that Craig would genuinely welcome Jackman taking on the role if that ever comes to happen, as would the fans and Jackman himself.
Hugh Jackman has consistently expressed his openness to portraying James Bond. He once disclosed being considered as a possible successor to Pierce Brosnan before Daniel Craig assumed the role. However, due to commitments to the X-Men franchise, he had to decline the opportunity. Now that the chance has reemerged, the question remains, will he seize it?
Actors in the Running to Become the Next James Bond!
From Jacob Elordi to Regé-Jean Page, the Duke of Hastings in Bridgerton, Henry Golding, and not to forget Lashana Lynch, everyone seems to be in the race to be the next British spy. But according to a Deadline report, Michael G. Wilson, the franchise head, stated,
“We’ve tried looking at younger people in the past–But trying to visualise it doesn’t work. Remember, Bond’s already a veteran. He’s had some experience. He’s a person who has been through the wars, so to speak. He’s probably been in the SAS or something. He [Bond] isn’t some kid out of high school that you can bring in and start off,—That’s why it works for a thirty-something.”
Experienced names like Idris Elba, Andrew Garfield, Dev Patel, Cillian Murphy, Robert Pattinson, Henry Cavill, and a slew of other contenders are rumored to be part of the mix. Whether officially in contention or not, fans sure are wishing for their inclusion in the race. These established actors, with their fascinating talents, have ignited speculation and enthusiasm among the fans, leading many to anticipate a thrilling showdown for the coveted role of James Bond.