It feels like we’ve been talking about who might become the next James Bond for years now. Partially, that’s because Daniel Craig made it very clear that he was done with the franchise after the upcoming film, “No Time to Die.” And then there’s the fact that “No Time to Die” has been delayed numerous times. So, the discussion of who takes over is being extended until we get official word from Bond producer Barbara Broccoli (which isn’t likely coming soon). But it appears there’s a new actor that is interested in taking over – John Boyega.
Speaking to MTV News, John Boyega was made aware that his “Small Axe” collaborator, Letitia Wright, mentioned him as a possible candidate for the role of James Bond when Daniel Craig hands over his gun and tux. Well, let’s just say that Boyega is all for that idea, on one condition – they get a specific director on board as well.
“Ooh! Hey listen, Steve McQueen directing, let’s do this!” Boyega said. “We could show them something different. We still bring that sophistication. You know, James Bond has to be James Bond. But we could do something with that.”
Steve McQueen, as you might already know, is the director of the forthcoming “Small Axe” film anthology, which includes “Red, White, and Blue” starring Boyega. In addition, he’s also the filmmaker behind features such as “12 Years a Slave,” “Shame,” and “Widows.” So, the idea of him directing a James Bond feature is pretty exciting, no denying that. And if Barbara Broccoli and Co. wanted to really go different with Boyega in the lead role, there might be no better filmmaker to fully make the transition for the franchise than McQueen.
Of course, that’s getting ahead of ourselves. Broccoli has said that the search for a new Bond won’t begin until after “No Time to Die” arrives in theaters, which is currently set for April 2021 (though that might change again). So, in the meantime, fans can keep speculating away.