Pierce Brosnan has said he would be 'interested' in returning as James Bond, but believes the franchise should move forward with a new actor. The 71-year-old, who played 007 in four films from 1995 to 2002, made the comments in an interview with GQ.
Brosnan acknowledged the 'delicate situation' following Amazon's recent acquisition of creative control over the Bond franchise from longtime producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson. He stated, 'I think it's best to let sleeping dogs lie... I think that it's best left to another man, really. Fresh blood.'
The actor's remarks come after more than three years without announcements regarding the next Bond film or actor. The last outing, 2021's No Time to Die, ended with the character's death, though an onscreen credit promised James Bond 'will return'.
Numerous actors have been linked to the role, including Aaron Taylor-Johnson, James Norton, Josh O'Connor, and Jonathan Bailey. Since Amazon's takeover, Harris Dickinson and Joe Alwyn have also emerged as potential candidates. Under the previous producers, the next Bond was expected to be British, male, and in his 30s, but Amazon's control may alter these criteria.
Elsewhere in the interview, Brosnan reflected on his career longevity and the freedom to choose roles. He also expressed support for Michael B. Jordan's upcoming remake of The Thomas Crown Affair, a film Brosnan starred in during 1999.
