Next James Bond: Hollywood star becomes new frontrunner for role after latest career venture
Theo James has emerged as the frontrunner to replace Daniel Craig as James Bond, with bookmakers BetMGM placing him as the 6/4 favourite to take on the iconic role.
The 40-year-old White Lotus star has seen his odds soar, putting him ahead of other contenders for the coveted 007 position.
The actor, who also appeared in The Gentlemen, has captured the attention of both fans and bookmakers as speculation continues about who will step into the role following Daniel Craig’s final appearance in 2021’s No Time to Die.
James’ surge in popularity comes after his pulsating new underwear campaign for Dolce & Gabbana’s Light Blue fragrances.
The advertisement features the actor emerging from the ocean in tight white briefs, giving “Daniel Craig a run for his money” in a scene reminiscent of classic Bond moments.
The racy video, filmed in Faraglioni, Italy by photographer Gordon von Steiner, shows James alongside supermodel Vittoria Ceretti, who appears as a “classic bikini clad Bond Girl.”
The pair enjoy a “sizzling boat ride” and share a “passionate kiss” before climbing out of the sea and lounging on rocks.
The intense photoshoot has significantly boosted James’ prospects of landing the prestigious role.
The campaign has sparked enthusiasm among film fans, with many taking to social media to call for James to take up the 007 mantle.
MORE LIKE THIS:
James Bond star dies aged 89 as family issues heartbreaking statement after GoldenEye actor’s deathDaniel Craig makes feelings clear with emotional statement as Amazon takes over James Bond franchiseNext James Bond release date decided as Amazon ‘fast-tracks’ movie following acquisition
One wrote on X: “How is this guy not the new james bond already. Theo James is perfection.”
Another user questioned: “How are they even struggling with a James Bond when Theo James exists?!”
“I just saw there is a chance that Theo James is gonna be the next James Bond…. and dear god I hope so,” added a third.
Another fan explained: “Theo James fits perfectly, he’s got the voice, accent and charisma to play Bond as he was written and the skills to pull it off.”
According to bookmakers BetMGM, James is now the 6/4 favourite to be the next 007, ahead of Superman actor Henry Cavill at 3/1.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson remains in contention at 6/1, alongside Jack Lowden who shares the same odds.
Dan Towse, Brand Director at BetMGM, said: “The topic of who will play the next James Bond is always an interesting one and, with Amazon MGM working on the next movie, Theo James is the 6/4 favourite with BetMGM.”
“Speculation has been ongoing about who would replace Daniel Craig after his last appearance in 2021’s No Time to Die and it seems that James is a strong candidate to take over.”
While details about the next Bond film have been kept “tightly under wraps,” production is reportedly underway in London. This follows Amazon MGM’s creative takeover of the franchise, with longtime producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson stepping back.
Amy Pascal and David Heyman have joined as producers for the next instalment. Amazon MGM executives appeared at CinemaCon in Las Vegas earlier this month, confirming that production had begun.
“We are committed to honoring the legacy of this iconic character while bringing a fresh, exotic new chapter to audiences around the world alongside Amy and David,” they announced.
There have also been rumours that the next film could explore an origin story for the super spy.