Idris Elba has long been the favoured choice to take over the role of James Bond when Daniel Craig steps down – and may now have had his weightiest endorsement to date, from a former 007. Pierce Brosnan, who played the debonair spy in four films between 1994 and 2002, gave Idris his backing during an interview with the Radio Times this week. Asked whether he thought Idris would make a good Bond, Pierce replied, "Yeah, he would actually. Colin Salmon also. May the best man get the job, and may Daniel bring home the bacon for as long as he wants."
Idris Elba is the favourite to take over the role of James Bond
Pierce isn't the first star to endorse London-born Idris for the job; Kanye West has said the casting would be "visionary". The US rapper told the Sun, "I know Idris a little bit and he is a big talent. The movies he has been making are special, and when the role for James Bond comes up it needs to be his. "James Bond is a role made for British actors and you won't find a British actor who has the talent of Idris. To be honest, you won't find many anywhere who have his talent.
Pierce Brosnan, who played 007 in four films, has endorsed Idris
"Artists should be visionaries. A black James Bond would be visionary no doubt. Something that 30 years ago would have seemed crazy should now be something that is a real possibility." Luther star Idris, 42, originally dismissed speculation he was lined up for the role during an appearance on the Lorraine show early last year, saying it was "a rumour that's gotten out of control". But in September, the reports were reignited when he responded to a fan who asked if he would take the part, writing, "Yes, if it was offered to me, absolutely."
Daniel Craig is currently filming Spectre, his fourth Bond film
The subject of the next 007 become a hot topic again in November after leaked emails from the Sony hack suggested Idris should take over from Daniel, with then co-chairman Amy Pascal reportedly sending a message that read; "Idris should be the next Bond". The British actor initially remained silent on the subject following the leak, but later tweeted a picture of himself with the caption, "Isn't 007 supposed to be handsome? Glad you think I've got a shot!"