There have been countless theories about which actor will play Bond 26. A multitude of actors have been named as the ideal James Bond, but there is one man who is an especially interesting pick.
For the most part, the top candidates to play James Bond are well-known British action stars. The list includes big names such as Idris Elba, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Henry Cavill, Tom Hardy, and Dev Patel. In one way or another, each of these men have proven themselves to be great choices for the franchise, whether it is due to their acting chops, their on-screen heroics, or their general ambiance. Yet, having every Bond contender have a similar background may not be the best choice for a franchise that is constantly rebranding itself.
A Lot Of Next James Bond Actor Frontrunners Have Similar Problems
How Daniel Craig's Filmography Compares
The frontrunners for the next James Bond are all talented actors, but their similarities may be a hindrance to them. Every actor listed above is British, has been acting for many years, and has led an action movie. In this way, nothing really separates them aside from their physical appearance and their style. Just because an actor has experience in the action genre does not automatically make them prepared to take on such a massive role. Arguably, the next James Bond should stand out for a special reason, and this reason may be that they are completely unexpected.
The idea of a non-action actor taking on the role of James Bond isn't entirely new. Before Daniel Craig took on the iconic character, he had little to no action experience. Aside from appearing in 2001's Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, Craig performed in mostly dramas, biographical films, and period pieces. His psychological thrillers and crime films could perhaps stand in for action, but in reality, these projects could not compare to the skill set necessary to play Bond. Regardless, Craig made for a fantastic Bond in both the action and dramatic departments.
Josh O'Connor Could Be A Fantastic James Bond
O'Connor's Past Roles Explained
one of Bond's most important attributes. Ultimately, he could make for an exciting switch-up in a franchise that could easily become boring.
His breakout came in 2017 when he starred in God's Own Country, wherein he played a closeted sheep farmer.
Like Craig, O'Connor has mostly made his name through dramas - and TV shows. O'Connor's earliest roles include ing parts in Doctor Who and Peaky Blinders. His breakout came in 2017 when he starred in God's Own Country, wherein he played a closeted sheep farmer. Other pivotal O'Connor roles include Prince Charles of Wales in The Crown and the historical drama, The History of Sound, which he is starring in alongside Paul Mescal. To say the least, none of these projects really scream James Bond, but that may be exactly what makes him the perfect choice.
Is Josh O'Connor Being The Next James Bond Actually Likely?
Other Unconventional James Bond Contenders
It is hard to say whether The Hollywood Reporter's prediction is actually likely. O'Connor is certainly not the frontrunner among the many James Bond contenders, but that doesn't necessarily mean he will stay that way. If anything, his popularity could increase now that a major publication has put his name out there. Of course, O'Connor would need plenty of time to dedicate himself to this role, and at the moment, he has a number of projects coming up. He is starring in two movies in 2025 and two more at unclear dates.
James Bond Casting Report: Producers Facing Creative Dispute Over Direction Of The Next 007 & Bond Villain
A new James Bond casting report reveals that the producers are facing a creative dispute over the direction of the next 007 and Bond villain.
Even if O'Connor does not take on the role, his name being thrown into the ring could spur even more unconventional choices. Paul Mescal recently starred in Gladiator 2, so he is not totally separate from the action scene, but Bond would be an interesting departure from his usual roles. The part could also go to a relative newcomer, like One Day's lead, Leo Woodall. Regardless, audiences can be sure that James Bond will find its perfect actor soon enough.
- Created by
- Ian Fleming, Albert R. Broccoli
- First Film
- Dr. No
- Latest Film
- No Time to Die
- Films
- James Bond 26
- Cast
- Daniel Craig
- Genres
- Action
The James Bond franchise follows the adventures of British secret agent 007 as he combats global threats. With a license to kill, Bond faces off against various villains and criminal organizations, employing high-tech gadgets, espionage, and charm. The series spans multiple films, featuring exotic locations, thrilling action sequences, and memorable characters. Bond's mission to protect the world and uphold justice remains central, making the franchise an enduring icon in the spy genre.
