'King Arthur' - Actor Charlie Hunnam Open to Playing James Bond
Charlie Hunnam is the latest actor to throw his hat into the ring to become the next James Bond. The long-running franchise has been in limbo ever since Sam Mendes’ Spectre hit theaters in 2015. Despite an impressive take at the worldwide box office as well as somewhat decent reviews from critics, Spectre wasn’t exactly the hit Sony Pictures wanted it to be, and now MGM and EON Productions are accepting bids for a new distribution studio.
Of course, regardless of which studio ends up winning the rights to distribute the next James Bond movie, the question is, who will be suiting up as 007? Daniel Craig has been on the fence about reprising his role for a fifth installment; he made his debut as the British spy over a decade ago, in Martin Campbell’s Casino Royale. Craig says that filming Bond is tiring, and he has to seriously consider if another go-around is worth it. If he chooses to officially retire the suit, then someone else will need to step up.
While doing press for King Arthur: Legend of the Sword, Charlie Hunnam addressed the rumors regarding him playing James Bond on Conan. He said that while he hasn’t been contacted by anyone to play the character, it’s something he would like to do — but he doesn’t think it will ever happen.
Quote:
“I can say two things. I’m English and I look devilishly handsome in a suit. I can say three things…and nobody has called me about playing James Bond, so I’m pretty sure that’s not going to happen. … If you (Conan O’Brien) decide not to do it, you can just throw your ol’ pal Charlie’s name in the hat.”
Considering the poor box office performance of Hunnam’s latest movie, King Arthur, hopes of the actor continuing in the role of the iconic character may be misplaced. Instead, the English actor can move on to other parts. He has already expressed interest in doing a cameo in HBO’s Game of Thrones, and now it sounds like he’s at least interested in suiting up as the next James Bond. However, he’s not the only person reportedly being considered.
Every once in a while, a new name pops up in association with Bond. Some people hope to see Idris Elba take on the character, while others want to see someone like Michael Fassbender in the role. Even Tom Hardy threw his hat in the ring earlier this year, but only if Christopher Nolan would direct the film. Considering the reports of Nolan’s production studio taking over the next film, Hardy may be in luck. Regardless, though, there’s still the question of whether or not Craig will choose to return for one last film. If not, then it’ll surely be interesting to see who steps up for Bond 25.
[Screen Rant]
