In a recent interview on the Deadline Podcast, Bond executive producer Barbara Broccoli confirmed Elba has not been ruled out as the franchise’s next star.
“Well, we know Idris, we’re friends with him, and he’s a magnificent actor,” Broccoli said. “And, you know, it’s been part of the conversation, but it’s always difficult to have the conversation when you have someone in the seat. I think we have decided that until No Time to Die has had its run and Daniel has been able to — well, we’ve all been able to savour, reap the benefits of Daniel’s wonderful tenure, we’re not gonna think about, or talk about anybody else.”
Craig made his Bond debut in 2006’s Casino Royale and went on to portray the character in the following four instalments, the latest of which was 2021’s No Time to Die. Though the film marked Craig’s farewell to the franchise, Broccoli reassured audiences Bond “will be back.”
Idris spoke about the Bond rumours during a 2015 interview with the Hollywood Reporter, suggesting there was a slim chance he would ever land the role.
