Daniel Craig confirms exit; 7 actors who can replace him as next James Bond

Speaking at the 15th Governors Awards in Los Angeles, James Bond actor Daniel Craig dropped a major disappointment as he confirmed his exit from the iconic franchise. The 56-year-old first appeared as 007 in 2006’s ‘Casino Royale’ and ended his tenure with an on-screen sacrifice in 2021’s ‘No Time to Die’, holding the role for a whopping 15 years and 5 movies.

Incidentally, a major highlight during his speech was his hint at the next James Bond actor. Although, he made it clear that "I don't care who plays the next Bond,” he did not fail to spark excitement.“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. I'm just joking. Maybe I'm not," Daniel Craig addressed the audience, which triggered a guessing game on who the next possible actor may be.

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In an entertainment world full of possible choices, below is a list of Craig’s possible replacements.

7 actors who can replace Daniel Craig as the next James Bond

Aaron Taylor-Johnson

Aaron Taylor-Johnson

Known for films like Kick-Ass and Tenet, Aaron Taylor-Johnson recently appeared in The Fall Guy. The actor’s ability to seamlessly blend charisma, grit, and emotional depth makes him a standout contender for James Bond. Also, his experience in action-heavy roles and strong screen presence align perfectly with the famed fictional spy.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba

Idris Elba has a commanding presence, and magnetic charm, and is effortlessly cool, making him an ideal successor to Daniel Craig’s rugged Bond. While he brings a fresh perspective to the role, the star also carries the maturity to portray an experienced and complex agent that the franchise may look forward to.

Alan Ritchson

Alan Ritchson

Alan Ritchson is known for his well-executed action sequences. Additionally, his recent appearance in the Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare has showcased his range beyond action roles. Finally, his rugged charm and physicality make him a strong candidate for playing James Bond.

Tom Hardy

Tom Hardy

With a history of solid performances in the likes of The Dark Knight Rises and Mad Max: Fury Road, Tom Hardy remains a favorite for James Bond fans. In 2024, he appeared on screens for Venom 3 and showcased his ability to inhabit complex characters. Thus, this raw intensity, combined with a mischievous charm, could bring a unique flavor to James Bond.

Henry Cavill

Henry Cavill

Henry Cavill, globally recognized for his portrayal of Superman and Geralt in Netflix’s The Witcher, carries a strong physique and savvy looks. Moreover, his previous experience in films like Mission: Impossible – Fallout perfectly positions him as a classic James Bond, delivering action sequences with unmatched flair.

Paul Mescal

Paul Mescal

Paul Mescal’s recent roles in films like Gladiator II highlight his ability to play in emotionally driven plots while excelling in physical roles. The actor represents an opportunity to modernize Bond, offering a younger take on Bond while appealing to a new generation of fans.

Tom Hiddleston

Tom Hiddleston

Tom Hiddleston, beloved for his portrayal of Loki in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, is a master of charm and intrigue. The British actor’s ability to portray mysterious characters makes him a strong choice for Bond

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Bollywood Mention: Hrithik Roshan

Hrithik Roshan

The Bollywood megastar is renowned for his performances in films like War and the Dhoom franchise, where he effortlessly combined style, charisma, and action. In 2024, Hrithik Roshan starred in Fighter, marking his position as an able action hero. Furthermore, his international appeal makes him an even better choice for a new James Bond to follow on Daniel Craig.