James Bond Will Reportedly Remain a Man and Still Be British or From the Commonwealth, Pierce Brosnan Insists 007 Must Not Be American, and Longlegs Director Says 'F**k Jeff Bezos'

The James Bond rumor mill is churning following Amazon's acquisition of full creative control over 007. The question of who will play the next 007 remains unanswered, but a new report sheds some light on the situation. According to The Mail on Sunday, an internal Amazon memo confirms that James Bond will remain a British or Commonwealth male, effectively ruling out actors like Ryan Gosling.

This news is likely welcome to Pierce Brosnan, who played Bond from 1995 to 2002. Brosnan himself has stated to The Telegraph that 007 should unequivocally be British.

Potential Next James Bonds: Beyond the Usual Suspects

26 ImagesThe Commonwealth clause, however, opens the door for actors like Chris Hemsworth. In a 2019 interview with Balance magazine, Hemsworth expressed his interest, stating, “I don’t think you’ll ever meet anyone who doesn’t want a crack at James Bond. I’d love to do it.” He acknowledged, however, that the decision rests with the Bond community, Barbara Broccoli, and the production team. Following The Mail on Sunday’s report, speculation surrounding Hemsworth’s candidacy has intensified, with The Today Show Australia even declaring his casting a "sure thing."

Uncertainty surrounds the future of the franchise following Amazon's acquisition and the reduced involvement of long-time producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson. While Variety reports that a new Bond film remains the top priority, speculation about a potential Bond TV series persists. Amazon is reportedly seeking a new producer, aiming for someone with a cohesive vision, similar to David Heyman’s work on the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts franchises.

Christopher Nolan’s reported interest in directing a Bond film after Tenet was reportedly rejected by Broccoli, who reportedly wouldn't allow a director final cut. Nolan subsequently directed Oppenheimer, a massive box office success.

Amazon's takeover has drawn criticism. One director, during a Reddit AMA, expressed his opposition to directing a Bond film due to his disapproval of Jeff Bezos.

Fan speculation is rampant, with names like Tom Hardy, Idris Elba, James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and the fan-favorite Henry Cavill frequently mentioned.

Who’d You Pick as the Next Bond? --------------------------------

Henry CavillTom HardyChris HemsworthJames McAvoyMichael FassbenderAaron Taylor-JohnsonIdris ElbaSomeone else (tell us who in the comments!)

AnswerSee ResultsAccording to Variety, Amazon's ability to hire for the Bond role is contingent upon the completion of its deal with Broccoli and Wilson, expected later this year. This follows reports of a tense stalemate between the Broccoli family and Amazon, leaving the future of the franchise temporarily uncertain, as reported by the Wall Street Journal.

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