From Damian Lewis to Idris Elba: The hunt for new Bond is on, and there are plenty of takers

With less than a month to go before the release of the latest James Bond movie Spectre, the rumors and speculations are in full swing concerning the next man to fill in the shoes (and suit) of the iconic character. [caption id=“attachment_1716523” align=“alignleft” width=“380”]  Daniel Craig as James Bond. AP[/caption] Daniel Craig, who will be playing Bond for the forth time with the upcoming movie, in a recent interview with Esquire said that he wasn’t sure if he will return for another Bond movie after Spectre. The 47-year-old actor, who was previously reported to have signed up for two more movies in the franchise said he wasn’t sure of his decision so far. “I don’t know… I really don’t know. Honestly. I’m not trying to be coy. At the moment I can’t even conceive it,” he said. And perhaps, more importantly, he said he doesn’t want to. “At this moment, no. I have a life and I’ve got to get on with it a bit. But we’ll see,” he added. The new information only added fuel to the already growing speculations about the new Bond. So far, going by the media reports there are three strong contenders for the character which had previously been played by the likes of Sean Connery, Roger Moore and Pierce Brosnan. Idris Elba [caption id=“attachment_2448840” align=“aligncenter” width=“825”]  Idris Elba. Reuters[/caption] Controversy brewed up after it was suggested that Idris Elba (Luther) was could be the next Bond, which was followed by author Anthony Horowitz’s comment that Elba was “too street” to play the 007. Horowitz rectified his comments saying that in his mind he thought of Elba as only the character in Luther and didn’t mean to offend anyone. “Clumsily, I chose the word ‘street’ as Elba’s gritty portrayal of DCI John Luther was in my mind but I admit it was a poor choice of word. I am mortified to have caused offense,” he said in a statement. If Elba ends up becoming the new Bond, he will be the first black actor to take up the role. Damian Lewis [caption id=“attachment_2448852” align=“aligncenter” width=“825”]  Damian Lewis. Reuters[/caption] If reports are to be believed, Damian Lewis (Homeland) is the new Bond. Although of course, no official announcement have been made. With a headline reading ‘Damian Lewis ’number one choice’ to replace Craig as 007’, The Mirror reported that the actor has been given “an unofficial nod” that he is the first choice if Craig quits. “He is seen as an all-round international star who is perfect for the role. As he ages, he looks increasingly suave and sophisticated," The Mirror quoted a source saying. Reports also suggest that if the upcoming movie does well, Craig could be offered a substantial amount of money to continue with the franchise. Tom Hardy [caption id=“attachment_2448862” align=“aligncenter” width=“825”]  Tom Hardy. Reuters[/caption] Another contender on the list is Tom Hardy. The English actor who has been on a roll recently, can bag the role if the bookmakers are to be believed. “The Next James Bond market has certainly come alive with all the support coming in for Tom Hardy, who is now 4/1 from 6/1 to take over from Daniel Craig,” said BoyleSports (an Irish bookmaker site) spokesman Liam Glynn in a statement. Hardy is not unfamiliar with action roles and him taking up the role could be huge, literally. Other contenders Other names that keep popping up include that of Michael Fassbender, Henry Cavill and none other than (no kidding) that of David Beckham. Although, these names have not gained any substantial backing in the media so far. Much remains speculative, but one could soon expect a major announcement for the studio.