In contrary to previous report saying that his filming schedule prevented the Oscar-winning actor from taking on the role, it's now said that he's close to signing up for the new 007 movie.
- February 28, 2019
AceShowbiz - Rami Malek is ready to trade a mic for a gun. Fresh off his Oscar win for his portrayal of Freddie Mercury in "Bohemian Rhapsody", the actor is in final negotiations to villainize Daniel Craig's James Bond in "Bond 25".
This news is in contrary to previous report saying that it's unlikely for Malek to star in the movie. While rumors linking him to the upcoming Bond movie started back in 2018, Variety shattered hope of the actor appearing in the film as it said in December that his shooting schedule hindered him from committing to the project.
However, Collider begs to differ, saying that Malek's team at WME has successfully negotiated his shooting schedule to accommodate both productions. No deal is in place at the moment, but the site reports that it will happen soon.
Malek, who is also known for his role on USA Network's drama series "Mr. Robot", addressed the rumors linking him to "Bond 25" at the Palm Springs International Film Festival in January. Expressing his interest, he said, "We'll have to see about that. It would be nice to play a villain, that would be another dream role for me. I've got to play so many great ones so far so who knows. I'm keeping tight-lipped."
Details of the villainous character are not available, but it has been rumored that he will be a blind man. Moroccan actor Said Taghmaoui, who starred in "Wonder Woman", previously said that he was under consideration to play the villain when Danny Boyle was still attached to direct the movie.
Cary Fukunaga ("True Detective") has since been tapped to replace Boyle as the director, in addition to writing the script. Lea Seydoux is confirmed to return as psychologist Madeleine Swann, with Naomie Harris, Ben Whishaw and Ralph Fiennes also reprising their roles.
Variety has additionally reported that Billy Magnussen is expected to join the cast as a CIA operative that crosses paths with Bond. Meanwhile, two female roles have yet to be filled. One of them is "a new MI6 agent" and the other is "an accomplice similar to Olga Kurylenko's character in 'Quantum of Solace'."
Filming is slated to start in spring for an April 10, 2020 release.
