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Aaron Taylor-Johnson responds bluntly to James Bond casting rumors

Aaron Taylor-Johnson responds bluntly to James Bond casting rumors

A close-up shot of Aaron Taylor-Johnson in a brown sweater
Aaron Taylor-Johnson cleverly fended off another James Bond question (Image: Getty)

Aaron Taylor-Johnson immediately put an end to the eternal question on everyone’s lips: Will he play the next James Bond?

The alleged 007 actor, 34, was asked about the long-standing theory during the New York premiere of his new Marvel Comics action film Kraven The Hunter, in which he plays Spider-Man’s titular nemesis.

He was joined on the glamorous red carpet by his wife, British filmmaker Sam Taylor Johnson, 57, and his stepdaughters – Angelica, 27, and 18-year-old Jessie Phoenix – as he addressed the press ahead of his starring role in the Sony film stood.

“Another character that everyone is dying to see, just like Bond.” What do you think of the fans’ suggestion? Entertainment Tonight asked an amused-looking Aaron.

After a short laugh, Aaron replied, “I’d say come see Kraven, because that’s what matters.” this weekend and it won’t disappoint. I promise you guys.’

That’s a typical answer from the Kick-Ass star, who has been avoiding the question ever since he became the favorite to play Daniel Craig.

Aaron Taylor Johnson in Kraven the Hunter looks angry and wears a brown vest and pants
He has told fans to come and watch his latest film instead (Image: AP)

Back in August 2023, he told Esquire: “It’s not really my place to say anything.”

In March, rumors that he had already booked the role peaked. Although they were quickly shot down by a production insider who told the BBC there was “no truth” to it.

Nevertheless, Aaron had to deal with this question again and again in the following months.

He told Rolling Stone UK firmly: “I can only really talk about the things I show and tell.”

Weeks later, he shared a curt response with AP at the Fall Guy premiere when asked if he was tired of being asked about Bond.

“Are you tired of asking that question?” he quipped back, laughing.

The star isn’t the only British actor in the mix to take on the coveted role, which has been around for 60 years and has been played by seven actors to date.

According to bookmakers, Aaron will face Masters of the Air star Callum Turner, Bridgerton actor Rege-Jean Page, Theo James and Leo Woodall – to name just a few.

Aaron Taylor Johnson smiled at the Kraven The Hunter premiere in a rust-colored blazer and dark shirt
He’s had to answer this question a few times (Image: John Angelillo/UPI/Shutterstock)
Daniel Craig and Gemma Arterton
Daniel Craig was the last person to hold this prestigious role (Image: Mgm/Columbia/Eon/Kobal/REX/Shutterstock)

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Bond executives Barbara Broccoli and her brother Michael G. Wilson have been deliberately vague on the matter, but recently spoke in a bit more detail about what exactly they’re looking for.

“It’s a big decision,” Barbara said, confirming they are focusing their search on a man in his 30s.

Michael added: “Every time we cast a new actor, the films change.” It’s the excitement of a new Bond, a new direction. “Each of these people who took on the role offered something new and different.”

There is still no confirmation as to when any Bond updates will be announced as fans wait with bated breath to discover not only the lead actor but also the new director and plot direction.

Not only is Aaron a perfect fit for the casting, he also has a lot of support behind him.

“He’d be a great James Bond.” “I’ll just say, ‘I’ve never done enough action with Aaron, it’s crazy,'” director David Leitch gushed in April.

Leo Woodall in a jacket and white top
Stars like Leo Woodall are also there (Image: Getty)

His wife Sam once said, ‘Keep speculating.’ He would be great.’

Even former Bond actor Pierce Brosnan gave his approval, saying: “I think the man has the chops, the talent and the charisma to play Bond, very much.”

One person who isn’t interested in the rumors, however, is the new star’s predecessor, Daniel Craig, who scathingly replied: “I don’t care” when asked who should play it next.

As for Aaron’s advice to watch Kraven because it “won’t disappoint” – that may need to be taken with a grain of salt after the film debuted with a paltry 15% on Rotten Tomatoes.

Critics called it a “boring mess” and a “very, very bad movie.”

Kraven The Hunter hits theaters on December 13th.

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