James Bond fans around the globe are eagerly anticipating any news on the next 007 actor who will take over the mantle of the iconic secret agent after Daniel Craig retired from the role in 2021’s No Time to Die. And fans will be pleased to know that 007 franchise producer Barbara Broccoli has confirmed that the next Bond actor will be entirely new to the role, ensuring that they won’t be recasting actors who have retired from the role, such as late Sean Connery or Roger Moore.
Broccoli and her team are not considering using AI technology to bring back former actors for the role, as many find it disrespectful and inhumane. The producer assures audiences that while the hunt for the new Bond is underway, it will certainly not be someone unknown and untested.
While a new Bond and director need to be found, Eon Productions is also venturing into the streaming television space with their first reality series, 007: Road to a Million, featuring ordinary people traveling the world on a series of challenges. However, to fans’ relief, Broccoli asserts that this foray into television is a one-off and there are no plans to expand the Bond universe through this medium.
The series promises a cross-section of contestants reflecting the multicultural identity of the UK, and features acting heavyweight Brian Cox as The Controller, who brought emotion to the set and expressed hope for working with the franchise again.
Broccoli made sure to clarify Cox’s recent appearance on The Tonight Show wherein he joked about appearing in the next Bond film. Despite this, she didn’t rule out the possibility of future collaboration with the actor while assuring the public that the next Bond and director announcements may still be a while off. And so as we wait, one thing is guaranteed: the 007 franchise and its next incarnation remain as enigmatic as ever.
