James Bond boss says ‘you’ve got to brave’ as they hint at ‘changes’ to 007 character amid next actor rumours

James Bond fans have been eagerly awaiting news of who will playing the next 007 following Daniel Craig’s exit from the franchise, which was announced in 2019.

While there has been a lot of speculation as to who will replace him, fans are still none the wiser as 2025 approaches.

As well as the several names circulating the rumour mill, there’s also been talk about the films seeing a whole new look, with some predicting a woman could be the new protagonist.

Now, James Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson have teased a “new direction” for the films, based on writer Ian Fleming’s series of books.

The two explicitly said the franchise would “change” in terms of its new leading actor.

“Every time we cast a new actor, the films change,” Wilson commented.

“It’s the excitement of a new Bond, a new direction. Every one of these people who took on the role offered something new and different,” he told Associated Press.

Broccoli weighed in about the franchise’s theatrical future: “People are playing it very safe. I think in times of crisis like this, you’ve got to be brave

“It’s certainly a new era in the movie business, so we’re trying to figure it out.”

Craig, 56, concluded his Bond stint after five films with 2021’s No Time To Die. The actor, who became the seventh to take on the iconic role, recently admitted he “doesn’t care” who steps in next.

The actor also admitted he couldn’t recall how many of the films he had fronted, answering: “Are you asking me that? I’m going to get it wrong,” while speaking to Variety.

Film producers Broccoli, 64, and her half-brother Wilson, 82, are the children of Albert R Broccoli, who led the start of the Bond movies along with Harry Saltzman with 1962 debut Dr. No.

It seems for now, the producers are keeping all details for the future of the franchise within the family.

Earlier this year, it was reported Aaron Taylor-Johnson, 34, had been “offered” the distinguished role.

Fans swarmed online platforms to share their opinions about the Kick-Ass star’s potential as the next 007, but the claims were soon quashed.

Eon Productions, the studio behind Bond, confirmed last month that a decision was yet to be reached.

Theo James, 39, has also recently emerged as a potential, with betting companies frequently placing the White Lotus star among the key predictions.

Taylor-Johnson remains the favourite for the role, however, with some bookmakers pricing him at 11/10 to land the Bond role.

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James is close behind him in the stakes according to the latest odds, surging all the way to a 5/2 punt after being as far behind as 12/1.

Spokesperson for William Hill, Lee Phelps, explained the shift in the market, saying: “The search for the next James Bond is hotting up and we have seen a lot of support for British actor Theo James, who has narrowed from as big as 12/1 into 5/2 second favourite.

“Being preceded by Aaron Taylor-Johnson who has been as short as 2/5 to step into 007’s shoes, but has now drifted to 11/10 in the market.
“James may well have caught the eye of executives with his performance in The Gentleman.

“There are still many names in the conversation, with Paul Mescal and Callum Taylor next in the market, both at 4/1, and James Norton a 5/1 shot.”