Actor Theo James is convinced he is “too old” to play James Bond and he would hate the “hyper-scrutiny and fame” that would come with taking on a huge role.
Theo James is “too old” to play James Bond.
The Gentleman star, 41, is among the stars being touted as possible replacements for Daniel Craig after he bowed out of the 007 franchise following the release of 2021’s No Time to Die – but Theo is adamant it’s too late for him to play the superspy and he would feel wary about taking on a role that comes with so much extra pressure.
He told GQ magazine: “I’m definitely too old now, for one. But, yeah, that would be an example of a place you could never come back from.”
Theo also said he would be reluctant to take on any role that would change his life too much, saying: “Imagine, suddenly, you and I cannot walk down the street.
“What that does to your children, who are trying to find themselves in the midst of hyper-scrutiny and fame. None of that, to me, is worth it.
“At the time, it’s very intoxicating, being offered some huge, sexy part that would change your life forever. But it really wouldn’t ultimately be worth it.”
Amazon MGM Studios have taken over the franchise and they are currently on the hunt for a new lead actor for the next movie.
After Daniel Craig quit his role as the superspy, he was followed out of the door by longtime producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson with Amazon MGM taking over control.
Dune’s Denis Villeneuve is directing the new film and Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight writing the script.
Recent rumours suggested Bond 26 is about to go into production at Pinewood Studios in the UK but a new lead actor has yet to be announced.
Amazon MGM Studios recently confirmed the audition process has kicked off, saying said in a statement: “The search for the next James Bond is underway. “While we don’t plan to comment on specific details during the casting process, we’re excited to share more news with 007 fans as soon as the time is right.”
Variety reported Amazon MGM bosses have brought in star casting agent Nina Gold- who has worked on the Star Wars franchise as well as Les Miserables and The Martian – to help find the next 007.
The studio’s head of film Courtenay Valenti previously issued an update and told fans the new movie is “coming” but they’re taking their time.
During an appearance at CinemaCon in Las Vegas in April, Courtenay said: “Now, I know you’re all wondering when we’re going to announce who’s playing James Bond. Don’t get too excited.
“Please know that we’re taking the time to do this with care and deep respect. It is the dream of a lifetime for all of us to bring audiences this next chapter, and it’s a responsibility we don’t take lightly.”
The movie executive added: “What I can tell you is this: when you pair one of the most beloved franchises in history with a world-class filmmaking team, including the brilliant director Denis Villeneuve, extraordinary producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman, executive producer Tanya Lapointe, and screenwriter Steven Knight, you’re setting the stage for something that’s truly worthy of the Bond legacy.
“That film is coming, and when the time is right, we’ll have much more to share.”
Theo James is ‘too old’ to play James Bond
