Is Idris Elba set to be in the next Bond film, but not as 007?

Virgin Radio

22 Nov 2021, 15:18

There have been many rumours regarding the identity of the next James Bond, with Idris Elba’s name often being mentioned as a frontrunner for the role, so recent reports that he’s been in talks about a role in the next movie are hardly surprising. What is slightly more surprising, however, is that he might actually not be playing 007, but a villain. 

Whilst the star of The Wire and Luther has previously been hotly tipped to take over from Daniel Craig as everyone’s favourite spy, reports are now suggesting that he has been involved in “informal talks” about a more sinister role in the spy franchise.

A source told The Sun newspaper: “Idris has had informal talks with the studio and he has been told there is a role in the next Bond film for him, if he wants it.

“He won’t be the title character, but they do recognise the amount of pull and respect he commands, and they want to work with him on a completely original character for the next instalment.”

The source added: “It is still very early days for the conversations but, so far, it looks like it would be the role of a villain.”

The current Bond film, No Time To Die, is Daniel Craig’s final outing as 007, meaning that discussion has been rife for some time about his successor. Whilst Idris’ name can now possibly now be struck from the list, several other big stars are still being mentioned, including Tom Hardy, and Rege-Jean Page, formerly of Bridgerton.

Tom Hopper of The Umbrella Academy and Terminator: Dark Fate has also emerged as a possible contender for the role.

Meanwhile, Idris will be back in more familiar territory in the near future, as he is set to reprise his role as Luther in an upcoming movie. 

The actor previously won a Critics Choice Television Award, Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild Award for the role in Luther.