From the moment Daniel Craig announced that “No Time to Die” would be his last appearance as James Bond, Hollywood and London have seen countless notable names pop up as frontrunners to become the new 007. But while a majority of the franchise fans have been pushing for Idris Elba seemingly since day one, according to the veteran actor—his name has never officially been in the running.
Or at least, that’s what he told PEOPLE recently, admitting that he was “honestly” never in the conversation.
“My name’s not getting thrown out, no way. They’re going younger. And I wish them all the luck of the world. I can’t wait; it’s going to be amazing,” Elba explained. “I’m honestly not in the race ever. I wasn’t in the race in the first place.”
As disappointing as that may be to hear, we thought we’d weigh in with some Black actors who would be the perfect choice to take over as the next James Bond. Let’s take a look!
Lashana Lynch
The franchise’s producers don’t have to look too far to find the most logical choice to lead the batch of films. In “No Time to Die,” Lashana Lynch is Nomi, the spy who takes over the 007 title. She’s confident, unflappable, a total badass and compassionate. Everything Bond should be.
Damson Idris
In his acclaimed role as “Snowfall’s” Franklin, Damson Idris was menacing, clever and at times, broken. He’s also not attached to another big franchise yet, so now is the perfect time to lock him in for multiple movies.
Chiwetel Ejiofor
There’s something mysteriously charming about Chiwetel Ejiofor. You never really know what to expect from his characters. Which side are they on? What are their motivations? It would be fascinating to have a Bond whose motivations are unpredictable.
Regé-Jean Page
No actor checks all the traditional Bond boxes the way Regé-Jean Page. He’s been the romantic lead, action hero, vulnerable and complex man and even the comic relief. How has he not already been cast?
Aaron Pierre
If you’ve seen his work in “The Underground Railroad” or “Genius: MLK/X” you know that Aaron Pierre has a captivating presence you can’t look away from, something James Bond absolutely has to have.
Jacob Anderson
What was great about Daniel Craig’s Bond is that he leaned into the character’s humble upbringing, making the spy grittier and tougher than his predecessors. “Interview With the Vampire” star Jacob Anderson could definitely continue that trend of a more down to Earth 007.
Paapa Essiedu
Paapa Essiedu is so interesting that even when he’s supposed to be the bad guy, you’re still kind of rooting for him. He’s done historical epics, gangster series, sci-fi/fantasy and over the top comedy, so we know he has the range for Bond.
Daniel Kaluuya
We all know Daniel Kaluuya can masterfully play any role. Just imagine breath of fresh air he would bring to Bond!
Gugu Mbatha-Raw
While there are parts of his job he doesn’t like, James Bond loves being a spy. If you saw Gugu Mbatha-Raw in the short-lived NBC action series “Undercovers,” you know how good she is at being a spy.
Kingsley Ben-Adir
As “Secret Invasion’s” Gravik, Kingsley Ben-Adir tormented Nick Fury and was a despicable villain. He followed that up by disappearing into the role of legendary singer Bob Marley. It would be unforgettable to see what he can do with Bond.
John Boyega
We couldn’t possibly do a list of possible James Bond actors without John Boyega. He’s endlessly charming and likeable, making audiences instantly fall in love with him in every role.
Lucien Laviscount
If the franchise’s producers are truly looking for a fresh start with a new young actor, look no further than Lucien Laviscount. He has the perfect blend of mysterious, intriguing stranger and hero waiting to strike.
Kirby Howell-Baptiste
Kirby Howell-Baptiste has the look of a deadly femme fatale who you will fall in love with while she’s killing you. But she also has that mischievous twinkle that signals she knows so much more than you. She’d be a fun Bond.
Jodie Turner-Smith
Jodie Turner-Smith ain’t nothing to mess with. She’s got that confident swag that lets you know she owns whatever room she’s in. If she told us she was going to save the world, then steal the villain’s top henchperson, we’d absolutely believe her.
Sterling K. Brown
Yes, we know he’s not British, but does anyone really think Sterling K. Brown can’t be a badass spy/ladies man while pulling off a spot on accent?
