Idris Elba doesnt want to just be the black guy who plays Bond after producers hint at diversifying 007
James Bond producers have this week confirmed that it is time for the role to be taken on by a black actor.
But thats not what Idris Elba, the number one man in the running for the role, wants to be remembered for.
In an unearthed interview, the 45-year-old hints that he could pass over on the opportunity to play 007 if it represents the wrong thing.
In an interview with New York Times, Idris explained: I think its more about, “We just want to have a black guy play James Bond” rather than, “Idris Elba, the actor, play James Bond. Thats the part Im like, ugh, come on.
It could be a woman — could be a black woman, could be a white woman — do something different with it, you know?
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Just last week, James Bond producer Barbara Broccoli said she was open to diversifying the role.
The Daily Star reports that Broccoli had a conversation with director Antoine Fuqua about potentially casting the role with a non-white actor.
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The article says Broccoli told Fuqua that casting an ethnic minority actor as 007 will happen eventually and even singled out Idris as the kind of man for the job.
Idris could do it if he was in shape, she revealed. You need a guy with a physically strong presence. Idris has that.
Nevertheless, Idris has said the decision will come down to the will of the people.
He has recently backtracked on a heavy hint that he had been handed the role when he mysteriously tweeted: My names Elba, Idris Elba.
MORE: Idris Elba says attending the Royal Wedding was one of the highlights of his life
MORE: Idris Elba backtracks after sending fans into a frenzy with James Bond casting tease
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