These 12 Actors are the Ones Standing Between Henry Cavill and James Bond

Henry Cavill has been a fan-favorite choice for the new version of James Bond, the British spy that Daniel Craig famously portrayed for fifteen long years. The search is continuously on, and many actors have been speculated and suggested for the role, though no one has got a strong fan support as the Man of Steel actor himself.

The team behind the action franchise is yet to look for the most suitable actor to take on the responsibility. This time, they need a slightly younger star who can commit for at least 10-12 years, and of course, possess the charm and grit of the famed agent.

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Here are the 12 actors competing against Cavill for the coveted role of James Bond:

1. Aaron Taylor-Johnson

One of the lead choices for James Bond, Aaron Taylor-Johnson is known for his work in Kick-Ass, Avengers: Age of Ultron, and the upcoming Kraven the Hunter. Although he did not outwardly express interest in the role, he said he goes by the beat of his own drum.

2. James Norton

The English actor is notably known for his television series roles in Happy Valley, Grantchester, War & Peace, and McMafia. James Norton was tipped to play the part after being spotted hanging out with Daniel Craig, though his odds have recently drifted.

3. Damson Idris

While Damson Idris may not be a popular actor in mainstream media, he is a favorite bet among the candidates for James Bond. He is recognized for starring in the crime drama Snowfall. Last year, he emerged as a second-top contender for the sought-after role.

4. Regé-Jean Page

Best known for his role as Simon Basset, the Duke of Hastings, in Netflix’s Bridgerton series, Regé-Jean Page is one of the widely talked-about actors for the spy role. In fact, the Russo brothers, who helmed The Gray Man, believed Page would make a great James Bond.

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5. Cillian Murphy

One of the most acclaimed actors of all time, Cillian Murphy’s wide range of successful projects proves his versatility across varied genres. His portrayal of Thomas Shelby in BBC’s Peaky Blinders definitely proves he’s got the grit and swag.

6. Tom Hardy

For a long time, the Venom actor has been rumored to play James Bond after Craig’s retirement. Tom Hardy remains a fan-favorite suggestion and is one of the crowd’s top bets. His extensive portfolio of action films rather demonstrates his capability to take on the role.

7. Sope Dirisu

Sope Dirisu made his cinematic debut with Sand Castle and The Huntsman: Winter’s War. Although he suddenly emerged as a contender for the James Bond role, he has long been aware of the rumors. Even though he doesn’t think his odds are great, many fans still cheer for him.

8. Jack Lowden

With his leading man charisma, Jack Lowden surely captured fans’ attention. He is well-known for starring in Slow Horses, Dunkirk, and Mary Queen of Scotts. When asked about his reaction to the Bond question, he admitted feeling flattered.

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9. Paapa Essiedu

Fans remember Paapa Essiedu from Netflix’s Black Mirror and Gangs of London, but he recently emerged as a candidate for the British spy role. When asked about the possibility of him bagging the part, he confessed there’s a lot to consider when it comes to issues regarding diversity.

10. Callum Turner

Fantastic Beasts star Callum Turner is also in the running for the suave spy role, though he admitted that he has not been in any conversation with the team behind the franchise. Despite his admission, it does not kill his chance of becoming a lead favorite given his fans’ support.

11. Richard Madden

Richard Madden got fans a mini heart attack after giving an unofficial James Bond audition in Amazon Prime’s series Citadel. It’s basically a spy thriller in which he plays, well, a secret agent. He’s also one of the most popular bets so it would not come as a surprise if he wins the part.

12. Aidan Turner

The Hobbit actor was once a frontrunner to replace Craig as the 007, but his odds suddenly fell. Regardless, he still keeps the door ajar for when opportunity knocks. Well, he’s no stranger to starring in huge franchises, and this could be his chance to prove that he is a worthy James Bond.