Bond producer Barbara Broccoli says she is open to having a black or woman as the iconic spy, as the 'Spectre' actor is nearing the end of his tenure in the role.
- Dec 30, 2017
AceShowbiz - The next James Bond could be black or a woman, says producer Barbara Broccoli. Speaking to Daily Mail, Broccoli revealed she wouldn't hesitate breaking from the tradition that has seen Bond being played by white, middle-aged men, saying that she's open to having a black or woman as the next iconic spy once Daniel Craig walks away.
"These films tend to reflect the times, so we always try to push the envelope a little bit. Anything is possible," the producer told the news outlet. "Right now it's Daniel Craig, and I'm very happy with Daniel Craig, but who knows what the future will bring?"
Daniel Craig is nearing the end of his tenure in the 007 role. Ever since the 49-year-old English actor said he ruled out returning to the franchise following the last Bond film, "Spectre", before he agreed to reprise the role once again in "Bond 25", speculation over his successor has been rife. Among those having been heavily rumored for the role is Idris Elba. But the constant debate over the color of the spy's skin has taken its toll on "The Dark Tower" star.
Elba previously told the Daily Telegraph, "It feels like I'm campaigning, and I'm not." He went on saying, "At first it was harmless - oh, I know, wouldn't it be great? - and now it's started off racial debates." He said that he's "probably the most famous Bond actor in the world, and I've not even played the role." He concluded, "Enough is enough. I can't talk about it any more."
Meanwhile, one advocate of a female Bond is Prime Minister Theresa May, who hailed "Doctor Who" for choosing Jodie Whittaker as its first female Doctor. "I do like watching 'Doctor Who' at Christmas. I think it's a great move forward for girl power that there is going to be a female Doctor Who," she said, before adding, "And one day there should be a female James Bond."
The PM also seemed to want to see "Happy Valley" star James Norton take the role as she said he "was being talked about as a possible James Bond."
