James Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson have spoken of their long-term expectations for Daniel Craig’s successors in the iconic role of 007. talking diversity (opens in new tab) In reference to perennial frontrunner Idris Elba seemingly distancing himself from the part, Broccoli said that, while it’s still “early days” and no announcement is imminent, they expect the next James Bond to be around for a long time.
“The thing is, it’s going to be years off. And when we cast Bond, it’s a 10-12 year commitment,” Broccoli said. “So he’s probably thinking, ‘Do I really want that thing? Not everyone wants to do that. It was hard enough to get. [Daniel Craig to do it]Wilson added: “And he was in his early 30s at the time!”
While the producing duo remain flexible about Bond’s future – for example, the decision on who replaces Craig will apparently roll well into 2023 – it’s clear they want 007’s next tenure to be like his predecessor. Daniel Craig has played the MI6 agent in five movies, from 2006’s Casino Royale to 2022’s Swan Song, No Time To Die.
“A lot of people think, ‘Oh yeah, that would be fun to do,'” Broccoli said. “Well. That won’t work.”
A number of late 30s and 40s films with Henry Cavill and Tom Hiddleston also likely negate the need for longevity. But that’s speculation for another day. See what 007’s past was like in our full ranking of the best James Bond movies