Idris Elba back as bookies' favourite for James Bond after 007 producer drops huge hint

Virgin Radio

25 Jan 2022, 09:42

The Luther star has long been a strong contender to replace Daniel Craig as infamous spy James Bond, but bookies are going wild after producer Barbara Broccoli dropped a new major clue.

Idris Elba is back being one of the bookies' top choices to carry on the Bond name in the franchise, and it’s all down to Broccoli’s candid admission about Idris’ involvement in the casting process. 

On who will carry on the Bond name, Barbara told Deadline last week: “We know Idris, I'm friends with him. He's a magnificent actor. 

“And, you know, it's been part of the conversation but it's always difficult to have the conversation when you have someone in the seat.”

Since those very suspect comments, betting agents have slashed his odds to take on the prestigious role, according to The Mirror.

As reported by the publication, Idris’s odds are now at 6-1, down from 12-1, making him one of the bookie’s top runners alongside the likes of Grantchester actor James Norton at 5-1.

Coral's John Hill told the paper: "It is no surprise that Bond producers are discussing Idris Elba as a possible candidate to replace Daniel Craig as the next 007.

“We have seen strong support for the Luther actor in our betting over the last 24 hours, and we have reacted by slashing his odds in half.”

Others favourites for the martini-loving international spy include Bridgerton’s Rege-Jean Page, who currently stands at 5-2 odds, while Tom Hardy has odds of 7-2. 

Richard Madden, who starred in Marvel’s Eternals and Bodyguard, could be the next Scottish Bond at odds of 7-1.

Meanwhile, Idris fans will hopefully get their Luther fix soon, as back in November, the actor confirmed he was back filming the new movie based on the hit crime series.