James Bond Will Reportedly Remain a Man and Still Be British or From the Commonwealth, Pierce Brosnan Insists 007 Must Not Be American, and Longlegs Director Says 'F**k Jeff Bezos'

The James Bond rumor mill is churning faster than a shaken martini after Amazon's acquisition of the franchise. While the identity of the next 007 remains shrouded in secrecy, a new report offers some clarity. According to The Mail on Sunday, an internal Amazon memo confirms James Bond will remain a British or Commonwealth man, effectively ruling out actors like Ryan Gosling.

This news will likely please Pierce Brosnan, who famously portrayed Bond across four films. In a recent interview with The Telegraph, Brosnan stated that a British Bond is a "given."

Potential Next Bonds: Beyond the Usual Suspects

26 Images

However, the Commonwealth clause opens the door for actors like Chris Hemsworth. In a 2019 interview with Balance magazine, Hemsworth expressed his interest, stating, "I don’t think you’ll ever meet anyone who doesn’t want a crack at James Bond. I’d love to do it." He emphasized the decision rests with the franchise's stakeholders. Following The Mail on Sunday's report, speculation has intensified, with The Today Show Australia even declaring Hemsworth's casting a "surety."

Uncertainty surrounds the future of the franchise following Amazon's acquisition and the reduced involvement of long-time producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson. While a TV series has been discussed by Variety, a new Bond film remains the "top priority." Amazon is reportedly seeking a producer, with David Heyman (known for his work on the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films) as a potential candidate.

Christopher Nolan's reported interest in directing a Bond film after Tenet was reportedly rejected by Broccoli, who maintained control over the "final cut."

Amazon's takeover hasn't been universally welcomed. One director, during a Reddit AMA, expressed his opposition, stating "No, because f*** Jeff Bezos."

Fan speculation is rampant, with names like Tom Hardy, Idris Elba, James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and the fan-favorite, Henry Cavill, frequently mentioned.

According to Variety, Amazon's hiring process is on hold pending the completion of its deal with Broccoli and Wilson, expected later this year. This follows reports of a tense standoff between the Broccoli family and Amazon, leaving the future of the franchise temporarily uncertain. Amazon and Eon Productions have yet to comment publicly.