One of the most talked-about actors to take over as James Bond is Idris Elba. Fans have been hoping for Elba to step into 007's shoes for years, and the time might finally be near. Producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson told Deadline in January that Elba is part of the conversation in terms of casting. Broccoli said, "We know Idris ... he's a magnificent actor."
Elba's not sure it's going to happen, though. He told CBS Mornings in April, "You know, it's one of those rumours that I'm proud to be considered, you know, a contender for Bond, of course. There's like, it's an incredible compliment to me. But as a career choice, it's not one that I've pursued. I've never really pursued this rumour, you know. Listen, if it was offered to me, I would heavily consider it. But I don't think it will be. It's not in the cards."
Elba, at 50, is definitely at the older end of the Bond ideal age window, but the oldest Bond ever, David Niven, was already 57 upon his casting. Additionally, although Elba has a very successful movie career, his most iconic franchise-leading role as Luther Morgan is on television. Considering how popular Elba is with fans, we can't knock him out of first place for consideration.