Cliff Notes – British actor claims stepping into James Bond role is a ‘nightmare’
- Henry Golding expressed that taking on the James Bond role is every actor’s "nightmare," citing the immense cultural pressure and expectations associated with the character.
- He suggested that introducing new agents or "OOs" could alleviate some of the constraints and allow for more creative freedom within the franchise.
- The upcoming Bond film will be directed by Denis Villeneuve, following a significant shift in creative control after Amazon MGM Studios acquired the franchise.
British actor claims stepping into James Bond role is a ‘nightmare’
Henry Golding has been linked to the James Bond franchise (Picture: Shutterstock / Metro)
Henry Golding has shared his honest thoughts on stepping into the James Bond role, describing it as every actor’s ‘nightmare’.
In the wake of Daniel Craig’s exit from the franchise after the release of No Time To Die, fans have been not-so-patiently waiting for news on who would be taking over as 007.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Taron Egerton, Henry Cavill, Idris Elba, Rege Jean-Page and Aaron Pierre are just some of the names that have been linked to the superspy in the last few years, with no sign of the speculation calming down.
In fact, an insider recently claimed that – following the news that Denis Villeneuve will be directing the upcoming movie – bosses have placed Tom Holland, Jacob Elordi and Harris Dickinson at the top of their wish list.
During an appearance at the Old Guard 2 premiere in LA, Henry – whose name has also been thrown into the mix – touched on the future of the Bond, and taking over the reins.
‘I think that’s every actor’s kind of nightmare,’ he told People Magazine. ‘But at the same time, [you’re] also wanting to kind of add something new to a franchise.
The actor got very honest on his thoughts about playing 007 (Picture: WireImage)
Daniel Craig exited the role after No Time To Die (Picture: Shutterstock)
‘Why can’t they bring out more agents or more OOs? I think that would be so much more fun, because there just isn’t the restraints and the expectation.’
‘Maybe I’m just a p***y. I don’t know. But I think I would love it so much more if there wasn’t that overhanging cultural pressure.’
In a huge change to the Bond franchise, it was recently announced that Amazon MGM Studios had acquired full creative control, with long-time producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson stepping back.
Last week, Dune director Denis was confirmed to helm the next movie, and will also serve as executive producer beside wife Tanya Lapointe.
There has been intense speculation over who could take his place (Picture: Shutterstock)
Denis Villeneuve will direct the upcoming 007 adventure (Picture: AP)
‘Some of my earliest movie-going memories are connected to 007. I grew up watching James Bond films with my father, ever since Dr No with Sean Connery,’ he said in a statement.
‘I’m a die-hard Bond fan. To me, he’s sacred territory. I intend to honour the tradition and open the path for many new missions to come.
‘This is a massive responsibility, but also incredibly exciting for me and a huge honour.’
With intense speculation on who the next famous face to don the infamous tux growing, former Bond star Pierce Brosnan opened up about who he would love to see take over the role.
Pierce Brosnan previously played Bond across four films (Picture: Shutterstock)
The MobLand actor, who starred as the suave spy for four films told the Hollywood Reporter: ‘I have no picks. I shall leave it open to the powers that be.
‘It’s a very exciting moment in the history of James Bond. Now that Barbara and Michael have relinquished the reins of it.’
Discussing how his co-star, Tom Hardy, could fare, he vowed: ‘Oh! Tom would be wonderful.
‘There’s so many great actors out there who could portray this character. I have no idea who, I have no idea. I wish whoever it is great success.’
