British actor Aaron Taylor-Johnson has been offered the iconic 007 tuxedo in the new James Bond movies, reports say. Following Daniel Craig's departure from the espionage franchise post his performance in "No Time to Die" (2021), the question of who would inherit the coveted role has been a topic of fervent discussion. While names like Tom Hardy, Regé-Jean Page, and Idris Elba have been floated, it is now reported that the torch may pass to Taylor-Johnson.
Taylor-Johnson is “expected to accept the role” imminently with a source close to the Eon Productions, behind the Bond films, telling The Independent, "Bond is Aaron’s job, should he wish to accept it. The formal offer is on the table, and they are waiting to hear back." The new movie is on course to start shooting this year.
The 33-year-old actor is known for his roles in "Kick-Ass," "Tenet," “Nocturnal Animals,” and "Bullet Train."
Fuelling speculation further, it's been disclosed that Taylor-Johnson held discussions with producer Barbara Broccoli in 2023, with sources suggesting the meeting went positively. This development follows earlier murmurs of a clandestine audition in December 2022.
In a recent interview preceding his role in Sony’s Marvel spin-off "Kraven the Hunter," Taylor-Johnson remained cryptic about his potential involvement, stating, "I’ve never made a decision based on other people’s perspectives, or their judgments, or their expectations."
If Taylor-Johnson does indeed accept the mantle of 007, he will have triumphed over a formidable roster of contenders, including Richard Madden, James Norton, and recent Oscar winner Cillian Murphy.
Taylor-Johnson has won a Golden Globe for his performance in “Nocturnal Animals” and played Quicksilver in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as well.
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