It’s one of the most awesome casting ideas we’ve seen in a long time – Idris Elba to star as the next James Bond. But what does the man himself think?
The upcoming new Bond movie SPECTRE has already gone into production, with Daniel Craig remaining in the iconic role. But after leaked Sony e-mails hinted at Idris Elba to take over the role, it looks as though the fans are really behind the idea.
But what about Idris Elba himself? It seems he’s rather pleased with all the attention…
Heading to Twitter, the 42-year-old British actor seems to be rather glad to see his name attached to the James Bond franchise… and replied with this rather humble message.
“Isn’t 007 supposed to handsome?” he said. “Glad you think I’ve got a shot! Happy New year people.”
Of course, it’s not just the fans who think Idris has a shot at becoming the next 007… as Sony Pictures boss Amy Pascal hinted that he’s at the top of their wish list for the franchise. And I can’t help thinking it would be a truly awesome choice.
But it seems the thought of a black Bond hasn’t been without criticism…
American political commentator Rush Limbaugh jumped straight into ultra-conservative mode as he bashed the idea of a black Bond.
“James Bond is a total concept put together by Ian Fleming,” he said. “He was white and Scottish. Period. That is who James Bond is… But now [they are] suggesting that the next James Bond should be Idris Elba, a black Briton, rather than a white from Scotland.”
Of course, going by Limbaugh’s rather rigorous criteria, that would also put Roger Moore, George Lazenby, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig out of the running. But never mind eh…
But will Idris Elba eventually land the role?
It’s a part that he’s spoken about for a number of years… and I can’t help wondering whether he’ll soon find himself getting a phone call from MI6. But for now, we’ll have to wait and see.
What do you think of Elba’s classy response? Do you think Idris Elba would make a great Bond? Let us know what you think in the comments below…
