James Bond superfan reveals top pick for next 007 as franchise undergoes major change
James Bond podcast host Tom Pickip has backed Henry Cavill as the next 007, citing the actor’s experience in major franchises as perfect preparation for the iconic role.
Speaking to GB News, the Really 007! Podcast presenter highlighted Cavill’s portrayal of Superman as particularly relevant experience.
“It’s Henry Cavill for me. He did his grounding with Superman and what bigger role can you have for James Bond?” Pickip said.
He noted that Cavill had previously auditioned for the role when he was younger, suggesting the timing could now be right for the British actor to take on the mantle.
Pickip emphasised Cavill’s understanding of major franchise dynamics as a key qualification for the role.
“He knows what it’s like to be in a big franchise. He looks great,” the podcast host told GB News.
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Pickip particularly praised Cavill’s rapport with fans, noting: “He loves interacting with the fans and he would do a good job. I would have him.”
The endorsement comes as speculation about the next Bond intensifies, following today’s announcement that Amazon MGM Studios will take creative control of the franchise from long-time producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson.
Addressing the Amazon takeover, Pickip expressed concerns about potential over-expansion of the franchise.
“I think some fans are worried about it going like Star Wars and being Disneyfied with hundreds of series,” he told GB News host Dawn Neesom.
The comments follow today’s landmark announcement that Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson are stepping down from creative control after more than 60 years of family stewardship.
Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios, pledged to continue the “treasured heritage” of the franchise.
“What it will be is what people want,” Pickip noted, addressing the franchise’s future direction.
However, Pickip remained optimistic about the franchise’s core elements being preserved.
“As long as there’s a main film series with the action hero we all know and love from the Ian Fleming books, that’s good news for me,” he said.
The podcast host also referenced Barbara Broccoli’s commitment regarding the character’s gender, noting: “Barbara Broccoli said it wouldn’t be a woman.”
Broccoli herself announced today she would be focusing on other projects, stating: “My life has been dedicated to maintaining and building upon the extraordinary legacy that was handed to Michael and me by our father.”