A replacement for Daniel Craig as James Bond has been tough to find, but a new star has joined the race and is a strong contender. It’s none other than Cillian Murphy, who became Hollywood’s most desired man after his Oscar-winning performance in Oppenheimer. However, many disagree that he’d be a good choice to play the renowned character and here’s why.
As per The Sun, Cillian’s portrayal of J. Robert Oppenheimer has grabbed the attention of Bond executives, who are actively seeking Daniel’s successor. An insider mentioned that «Cillian is the toast of Hollywood right now, and this would be the ultimate role.»
But it wouldn’t just be a plus for the actor. The same source says it could benefit the franchise as well. «This is a way to elevate the Bond franchise with an actor who is at the very top of his game.»
But, although James Bond producer Barbara Broccoli has been closely monitoring Cillian for the past year, there is still some time for a decision as production on the 26th Bond movie is not expected to start until late 2025.
There’s no lack of support from Cillian’s co-star, Clay Bunker, who is publicly rooting for the Irish actor to take on the role of 007. «He would fare beautifully. It’s funny because Cillian is the nicest human, but he has that dark side and there’s a darkness to Bond,» he said. «We forget that sometimes Bond is like the character [Ian] Fleming created — a pretty dark character. He just happens to be on the side that we call good. Cillian has that ability to tap into that.»
Unfortunately, not everyone online agrees with Bunker. Some users have expressed their disappointment in the fact that Cillian is even running for the part. «He’s almost 50! You need someone young who will be able to last through multiple movies. Someone like Jacob Elordi,» one person commented. And others share the same sentiment, adding, «I like him, and he’s a great actor, but he is not Bond by any stretch of the imagination.»
Still, there are fans who would be thrilled to see it happen. «I think he’d be perfect. Bond is a cold, calculating spy, actually. If Cillian decided to take on the role, he would give an exceptional performance, as always,» someone wrote.
And the people have not only spoken, they’ve also voted! Through an online voting poll, thousands of James Bond fans expressed what actor they’d most like to see portray James Bond next, and the results are in. Click here to see the ranking.
George Lazenby rejected 6 James Bond movies and his career, later suffered the loss of his 19-year-old son to a brain tumor
In 1968, George Lazenby, now 85, was cast as James Bond in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, taking over a role made famous by Sean Connery. Unfortunately, Lazenby struggled to fit into the iconic character, partly due to poor advice he received. As his fame dwindled, he shifted focus to family life, ultimately facing tragedy with the loss of his son to a malignant brain tumor in 1994.
The James Bond franchise began in 1963 with Dr. No and has since become a cultural phenomenon, featuring numerous films and actors over the decades. Sean Connery, who portrayed Bond in five films between 1962 and 1967, grew weary of the role. In a 1965 interview with Playboy, he expressed his disinterest, stating he was “sick of this Bond thing”, and found the constant association with the character monotonous.
When Connery stepped away, producers faced the daunting task of finding a successor. Lazenby, then a 29-year-old unknown actor from Australia, caught their attention after appearing in commercials for Fry’s chocolate spread. His persistence and charm helped him land the coveted role. Lazenby even spent his last savings on a tailored suit that had originally belonged to Connery.
Upon auditioning, he boldly introduced himself by saying: “I heard you’re looking for James Bond”, and was subsequently offered the part. However, upon the release of On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, reviews were mixed, and comparisons to Connery overshadowed Lazenby’s performance. Notably, critic Gene Siskel remarked that Lazenby lacked the suave confidence of his predecessor.
Despite the criticism, Lazenby was presented with a $1 million contract for six more films, but his manager advised against it, suggesting he pursue other opportunities. This decision led to Lazenby being “blacklisted” in Hollywood, with a reputation for being difficult to work with.
After a brief career in film and television, Lazenby shifted to a more private life. He married Christina Gannet in 1971, and they had two children. Tragically, their son Zachary battled a brain tumor for eight years before passing away at 19, leaving Lazenby “devastated”. Gannet shared on social media that losing Zachary was a profound sorrow for them both.
Following his son’s death, Lazenby divorced Gannet and later married Olympic tennis champion Pam Shriver, with whom he has three children. Now, Lazenby reflects on his life and cherishes his role as a father, stating: “The real successes in my life are my children”. Remember Lazenby’s portrayal of Bond? Share your thoughts on his legacy!
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