The hype around the search for the next James Bond actor is still going strong, as more stars contend for the coveted role of the famed British spy. Fans have been campaigning for the likes of Idris Elba, Tom Hardy, Henry Cavill, and Richard Madden, but it seems the production studio is taking its time finding the perfect face to represent the character in the next ten years.
With all the hopeful actors in the James Bond line-up, one American action star expressed interest in taking on the 007 role. Not only is he interested in the illustrious reputation of the franchise, but the actor also wants to continue the legacy of his grandfather.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson Wants To Become The Next James Bond
In an interview with Esquire, Black Adam star Dwayne Johnson revealed his grandfather, Peter Maivia, was once part of the James Bond franchise where he played a significant role:
“Yes, my grandfather was a Bond villain in You Only Live Twice with Sean Connery. Very, very cool. I would like to follow in his footsteps and be the next Bond. I don’t want to be a villain. Gotta be Bond.”
Johnson’s desire to take on the role of James Bond came after Daniel Craig officially retired as the famed spy. The latter wore the suit for 15 years, creating an illustrious career as “the Grumpy Bond.”
While the Jumanji star’s enthusiasm is certainly evident in his interview, it is highly improbable that he will be cast as 007 since the famous character hardly ventured far from British origins. Sure, Sean Connery was Scottish, and Pierce Brosnan is Irish, but the chance of choosing an American actor like Johnson is somehow quite slim.
In an interview with Variety, James Bond executives Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson revealed what they look for in the post-Craig world. Wilson notably said, “You think of him as being from Britain or the Commonwealth, but Britain is a very diverse place.” The duo is open to considerations when choosing the next 007. Broccoli also added, “He can be of any color, but he is male.”
While these descriptions sound very promising, Johnson may have to settle for an alternate kind of Bond movie. Since he has starred in numerous action films, he can just create his own brand. He’s The Rock, after all.
James Bond Needs A Younger Actor With Years Of Experience
Last year, Broccoli announced more specific criteria for their search for the next James Bond. It seems that the producers are now diverting from the usual characteristics of the celebrated agent and are in dire need of an actor below 40 who could still radiate years of experience.
The movie executives have previously announced that they are looking for someone who can commit to a ten to twelve-year contract, thus an actor in his late 20s to early 30s would be more suitable and preferred.
Broccoli said that the production for the next James Bond movie won’t start until 2024, so fans will have to wait a few years before they finally meet the new Agent 007.
James Bond movies are available to watch via Prime Video.
