Bond Remains British: Brosnan Rejects American 007

The James Bond rumor mill is churning again after Amazon's surprising acquisition of full creative control over 007. The question of who will play the next 007 remains unanswered, but a new report sheds some light. According to The Mail on Sunday, an internal Amazon memo confirms James Bond will remain a British or Commonwealth man, effectively ruling out actors like Ryan Gosling.

This news pleases former Bond, Pierce Brosnan, who told The Telegraph that a British Bond is a given.

Potential Next James Bonds (Who Haven't Played 007)

26 ImagesThe Commonwealth clause opens the door for Australian actor Chris Hemsworth, who previously expressed interest. In a 2019 interview with Balance magazine, Hemsworth stated he'd love to play Bond, acknowledging the decision rests with the franchise and its fanbase. His past comments have resurfaced following The Mail on Sunday's report, with The Today Show Australia even declaring Hemsworth's casting a "sure thing."

Christopher Nolan's reported interest in directing a Bond film was previously rejected by Broccoli, who reportedly insisted on retaining final cut. This decision came before Nolan's success with Oppenheimer.

Amazon's control has drawn criticism. One director, during a Reddit AMA, explicitly stated their refusal to direct a Bond film due to their opposition to Jeff Bezos.

Fan speculation centers on various actors, including Tom Hardy, Idris Elba, James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Aaron Taylor-Johnson (previously rumored as a frontrunner), and the fan-favorite, Henry Cavill.

Amazon and Eon have yet to comment publicly.