The new James Bond certainly has big boots to fill (Picture: Danjaq/Eon Productions/Kobal/REX/Shutterstock)
Daniel Craig has teased he knows who is replacing him as James Bond.
Since his departure from the franchise after No Time to Die in 2021, speculation has been rife over who could be the next 007 with hotly tipped names including Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Rege-Jean Page and James Norton.
However, at the Governors Awards in Hollywood last night, Daniel, 56, suggested the new Bond was in the audience as he awarded an honorary Oscar to 007 producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson.
With a knowing smile, the Knives Out actor said in his speech: ‘But first, let’s just get something out of the way.
‘If you came here this evening to find out who the next James Bond is, don’t look at me, but he might be in the room… just joking… maybe I’m not?’
Every Hollywood heavyweight was at the prestigious awards ceremony making it difficult to single out Daniel’s successor, but the likes of Barry Keoghan, Nicholas Hoult and Paul Mescal were present.
Daniel officially retired as James Bond three years ago (Picture: Col Pics/Everett/REX/Shutterstock)
He hinted he knew who his replacement will be (Picture: Etienne Laurent/AFP via Getty Images)
It comes after Barbara and Michael revealed in a rare comment their vision for Bond.
‘It’s a big decision,’ Barbara – who is the daughter of famed Bond producer Albert ‘Cubby’ Broccoli – said.
They have confirmed that James Bond will be a man, after Lashana Lynch made history in 2021’s No Time to Die as the first Black female 007, Nomi.
They are focusing on actors in their 30s, which could revitalise the franchise for a younger audience but rules out long rumored Idris Elba, 52, and possibly Henry Cavill, 41.
At 28 years old, Paul might be too young to play Bond (Picture: Steve Granitz/FilmMagic)
Are the Bond producers eyeing up Barry to be the next 007? (Picture: Valeria Mancon/AFP via Getty Images)
Aaron – who did not seem to be at the Governors Awards – is still considered the favourite for the role, despite a source firmly denying his involvement in March when the speculation reached fever pitch.
Hot on the Kraven star’s tail is Bridgerton’s Regé, The Gentlemen star Theo James, and Kingsman icon Taron Egerton.
Leo Woodall was a surprise new entry into the Bond race, having stunned viewers in White Lotus and Netflix’s One Day.
He’s continuing to make waves as he stars opposite Renée Zellweger in the final installment of the beloved romantic comedy series Bridget Jones.
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