Sir Idris Elba, whose odds of becoming the next James Bond have recently been slashed, has stated that the iconic spy should not be made 'woke'. The newly knighted actor, now 53, has long been a fan favourite to take over the role from Daniel Craig. According to Coral Bookmakers, his chances have improved from 16-1 to 12-1. However, Elba believes that tampering with Ian Fleming's original vision would be a mistake.
Elba's Views on a Black Bond
In an interview with GQ, Elba addressed the persistent rumours of him playing the first black James Bond. He said: 'I've always felt that it's not a realistic thing. James Bond was written how he was written for a reason. But I was complimented by it. And also, I think, in realistic terms, some markets just don't go for that. Bond is big all over the world. And [audiences] won't [all] go for a black male, an African male, playing Bond. That's not what they like in their culture. Period.'
Staying True to Escapism
Elba emphasised that Bond should remain a form of escapism, free from modern social agendas. 'Bond is so unrealistic, so a hint of reality is good, but let's not try and make it woke. I think you've got to be pure to what it is: escapism. Don't try and answer the world's taste. Just be Bond,' he added. The actor, who stars in Masters of the Universe this week, urged fans to take the casting rumours with a pinch of salt.
Elba's comments come as the search for the next 007 intensifies, with other names like Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Henry Cavill also in the mix. However, Elba remains a popular choice among fans, despite his own reservations.
