LutherandThe Suicide Squad’s Idris Elba has made quite the name for himself, and it looks like he may have another big role to add to his filmography. The Brit actor is reportedly in talks to star in the nextJames Bondfilm, but not as the famous 007 agent.
With the release ofNo Time to Die, Daniel Craig’s time asJames Bondhas officially come to an end. While Idris Elba has remained a fan-favorite choice to take over the role for years, it appears his potential arrival in the 007 franchise may not be what fans had hoped for.

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According to a source from The Sun, conversations have been brewing involving Elba taking on a role in the iconic James Bond franchise. One source claims, “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 recognize the amount of pull and respect he commands, and they want to work with him on a completely original character for the next installment.” While the discussions are early in development, it appears that Elba may be taking on a villainous role. The actor has been rumored to play James Bond for quite a while, as he has been at the top of many fans' lists along with otheracclaimed actors such as Richard Madden, Tom Hardy, and Tom Hiddleston. But while at an ITV premiere in London, the veteran actor quickly denied the growing speculation, adding that he wouldn’t play Bond.
Even if he may not be taking on the titular role (as his role inJames Gunn’sThe Suicide Squadproves he can become a worthy, charismatic leader) Elba playing a villain is also no surprise. If his past films are any indication, fromFast and Furious: Hobbs & ShawtoThe Harder They Falland evenAmerican Gangster, Elba may just be the perfect choice to butt heads with the next Bond (especially after a disappointing villain played by Rami Malek inNo Time to Die).
If Elba doesn’t end up taking on a role in the next Bond film, either way, the focus in the coming months will still be on who becomesthe next James Bondfollowing Craig’s tenure. Craig’s last outing inNo Time to Diereceived much acclaim, as many critics believed he delivered one of his most raw and emotional performances to date as the spy. Now considered by many as THE top James Bond, whoever fills the role next will surely have challenges ahead.
WithNo Time to Diereleasedjust a little over a month ago, official details on the next Bond film are unlikely to be unveiled anytime soon. But in the meantime, it gives fans plenty of time to catch up on all of theJames Bondfeatures.
No Time to Dieis playing in theatres and is available to rent on platforms such as Apple TV, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, Vudu, and Google Play TV & Movies.
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