There's a lot of discussion surrounding who will be chosen to play the next James Bond, with many fans concerned that their top picks - Henry Cavill and Idris Elba, for example - will be aged out by the time the next movie begins shooting. However, that might not be the problem we thought it would be.
Following recent comments from producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson that they're looking to find an actor who will commit to the role for the long haul, the latter has followed-up by making it clear that they're not planning to cast a younger star.
Talking to Deadline about the changes at MGM since Amazon acquired the studio, Wilson said, "It’s a whole new world. We’ve got to see what happens with Amazon. But there’ll always be a Bond." He'd add to that by making it clear there's still no new 007 "no matter what others tell you."
Elaborating on that point, the producer said: "We’ve tried looking at younger people in the past. But trying to visualize it doesn’t work. Remember, Bond’s already a veteran. He’s had some experience. He’s a person who has been through the wars, so to speak. He’s probably been in the SAS or something."
"He isn’t some kid out of high school that you can bring in and start off. That’s why it works for a thirty-something."
Well, at least we know what age range they're looking for now!
There are quite a few candidates in their late 20s likely to be the right age by the time the next James Bond movie comes along, but there's clearly no rush to replace Daniel Craig. We're hoping for some news next year, but at this rate, we wouldn't be surprised if they keep us waiting until 2024 for an official James Bond casting reveal.
Who do you think should play the next 007?