The following is coming from a British tabloid so proceed with caution, the Sunday Mirror reports that Damian Lewis is being considered for the role of James Bond, if Daniel Craig does decide to leave after the release of Spectre.
“If Daniel Craig leaves, it’s Damian Lewis who will be crowned the new Bond. He is seen as an all-round international star who is perfect for the role. As he ages, he looks increasingly suave and sophisticated.”
I’m not saying this is a hundred percent legitimate, but when concerning Bond projects it’s usually British news/tabloids who break this kind of stuff.
Lewis is best known for his Golden Globe and Emmy award winning role on Homeland, but also played Captain Winters on the critically acclaimed HBO series Band of Brothers. A capable British actor, who is known for playing many American roles.
Other fan-favorite Bond candidates recently include Idris Elba, Michael Fassbender, and newcomer Dan Stevens. It’ll be interesting if they did hire someone like Lewis, as he’s never really been mentioned often in Bond lists, something maybe to quell high expectations for a post-Craig franchise?
I’m a bit concerned with his age, as they keep making nudges that Daniel Craig is getting too old in the films, but Lewis is only three years younger than Craig. I’d assume they’d want someone in their 30’s or early 40’s for the role, but that’s just me. Then again, Elba is only a year younger than Lewis.
An assumption has been that with Skyfall earning over a billion, producers and the studios involved want to release films in a more timely manner. If you don’t remember, there was a huge delay between Quantum of Solace and Skyfall, and I don’t think MGM or Sony are likely willing to sit on moving forward with Bond 25 and Bond 26 quickly, that’s if Spectre is another massive hit for them.
There is a bit of speculation if Daniel Craig will indeed leave the role earlier than expected, as it’s been reported he has one more film left in his contract. Director Sam Mendes had mentioned possibly not returning for next installment, this could give Craig cold-feet, as I’m sure he doesn’t want his last Bond entry to be another Quantum of Solace. Leaving on a high note, might be a good move on his part, but it could also be a way to renegotiate his existing contract for more money.
Can you picture Damian Lewis being the next James Bond?
SOURCE: SUNDAY MIRROR