It looks like the search for the next James Bond is quietly heating up, and according to a new rumor, Lanterns star Aaron Pierre might be in the mix.
The 31-year-old British actor is reportedly “being considered” for the iconic role of 007, according to industry insider Daniel Richtman, who notes that while it’s unclear if Pierre has officially met with producers, he’s allegedly on the radar as Amazon MGM gears up for the next chapter of the long-running franchise.
Richtman also claims that filming is tentatively expected to start sometime next year, though no director has been locked in yet.
Pierre has been steadily rising through the ranks in recent years. After turns in Krypton, Old, and Brother, he earned acclaim for his performance in Barry Jenkins’ The Underground Railroad, and more recently landed the co-lead role of Green Lantern John Stewart in DC and HBO’s upcoming series Lanterns.
Of course, Pierre’s name is just one of many that have been floated since Daniel Craig exited the role with No Time To Die. Long before that film even hit theaters, speculation swirled around a potential shake-up for the franchise, including the idea of casting a Black actor as Bond.
Idris Elba was a fan-favorite for years but never truly pursued the role. Now, with Amazon MGM and producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman steering the next installment, it seems all options are back on the table, within certain boundaries.
Deadline recently shared details from an internal memo at Amazon/MGM that emphasized, “the spy will not change gender or nationality.” While Pierre has shown off a solid American accent in several roles, he is in fact a London-born Englishman, which checks that box.
“We are approaching every creative decision with James Bond, which Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson have so masterfully steered, with the greatest sense of responsibility,” said Amazon MGM Studios’ Head of Film, Courtenay Valenti, following the announcement of Pascal and Heyman’s involvement.
“Part of an elite group of producers who have developed and managed massive film franchises to box office success and critical acclaim, Amy Pascal and David Heyman are two of the most accomplished, experienced, and respected film producers in our industry.”
Pascal and Heyman added in a joint statement: “James Bond is one of the most iconic characters in the history of cinema. We are humbled to follow in the footsteps of Barbara Broccoli and Michael Wilson who made so many extraordinary films and honored and excited to keep the spirit of Bond very much alive as he embarks on his next adventure.”
At this stage, it’s still just rumor, but Aaron Pierre would certainly be a interesting choice to carry the torch. Whether or not he suits up in the tux, his name entering the conversation tells us that Amazon MGM is seriously exploring fresh, forward-thinking casting for Bond’s next chapter.
Would you be down to see Aaron Pierre as 007?
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