With Daniel Craig stepping down from the role of James Bond after 15 years, speculation has been rampant about who will take on the legendary mantle of 007. 

Among the many names thrown into the mix, British actor James Norton has frequently been mentioned as a strong contender. 

However, Norton himself appears both amused and bemused by the ongoing rumors, offering a lighthearted response to the speculation.

During a red carpet interview at the BAFTAs on Sunday, Norton was informed that he was the odds-on favorite to become the next Bond. 

The actor, known for his roles in Happy Valley and McMafia, responded with a laugh, questioning the credibility of those setting the betting odds.

“Am I? Whoever’s deciding on these odds needs to get a new job,” he quipped, dismissing the notion with characteristic humor.

While Norton has been linked to the role in various reports, he remains unconvinced that there is any real substance to the rumors. “Same as I felt the last time. It’s so weird and bemusing,” he said when asked about the ongoing speculation.

He further added, “Yet again, it’s based on pure speculation and it makes for a good little clickbait moment in the media. Other than that, it’s just fun and bemusing.”

The conversation took an even more amusing turn when presenter Alex Zane pointed out a supposed “clue” in Norton’s latest BBC series, Playing Nice. According to some fans, his character Pete Riley’s decision to forgo a tuxedo at a black-tie event could be a subtle hint about his future as 007. Norton, however, found the theory quite entertaining.

“If that’s not evidence to seal the deal, I don’t know what is,” he joked, before sarcastically adding, “It’s got nothing to do with the fact that the character felt uncomfortable wearing a tux and was a bit low-key, that’s clearly irrelevant.”

He playfully continued, “It’s clearly undeniable. What can I say? You got me. Whoever’s spotted that, 10 points, well done. I’m definitely not [confirming].”

The speculation surrounding the next Bond has been in full force ever since Craig’s departure was confirmed. Craig first stepped into the iconic role in 2006 with Casino Royale and went on to star in Quantum of Solace, Skyfall, and Spectre, before concluding his tenure with No Time To Die in 2021.

As discussions about the next actor to take on the role continue, several names have emerged as possible contenders. Among the frontrunners is Aaron Taylor-Johnson, along with other frequently mentioned candidates such as Theo James, Regé-Jean Page, and Paul Mescal.

However, not all fan-favorite choices necessarily fit the profile sought by the Bond producers. Irish actor Cillian Murphy, fresh off his Oscar win for Oppenheimer, saw his odds for the role improve significantly. Likewise, Normal People star Paul Mescal has been backed by industry figures such as Andrew Scott, who previously suggested that Mescal would make an excellent Bond.

Despite their talent, both Mescal and Murphy might be at a disadvantage due to their ages. At 29 and 47, respectively, they fall outside the preferred range identified by James Bond producer Michael G. Wilson.

Speaking at the British Film Institute in January 2023, Wilson emphasized that the next Bond should be a “thirty-something” actor.

“We’ve tried looking at younger people in the past. But trying to visualize it doesn’t work. Remember, Bond’s already a veteran. He’s had some experience,” Wilson explained.

“He’s a person who has been through the wars, so to speak. He’s probably been in the SAS or something. He isn’t some kid out of high school that you can bring in and start off. That’s why it works for a thirty-something.”

This guideline effectively narrows the field of potential candidates, with actors in their 30s emerging as the most likely options for the next Bond.

As for Norton, while he remains a fan favorite for the role, his recent comments suggest that he is not taking the speculation too seriously. Whether he will eventually don the tuxedo and order a vodka martini remains to be seen, but for now, he is enjoying the speculation with good humor.

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