James Norton Dismisses Bond Rumors with a Laugh
The speculation surrounding the next James Bond might soon envelop every able-bodied Brit if rumors continue to breed with such virility. Yet, amid the guessing game, James Norton, celebrated for his poignant turns in Little Women and the unnervingly reflective Black Mirror, has decisively quashed any whisper of him slipping into the famous tuxedo.
While gracing the BAFTA Awards on February 16, Norton found himself besieged by the usual fusillade of inquiry that follows those rumored to be next in line. The Independent captured his bemused response, “Am I? Whoever’s deciding on these odds needs to get a new job,” he said.
Adding a layer to the intrigue, a peculiar viral fan theory ties Norton to Bond through his role in the series Playing Nice. In a curious twist of costume fate, Norton appears as the only guest at a formal soiree sans tuxedo—a sartorial choice that fans have wildly theorized signifies a secret Bond contract forbidding him to wear a tux in any other role.
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“If that’s not evidence to seal the deal, I don’t know what is,” Norton laughed, clearly enjoying the absurdity of the conjecture. “It’s so weird and bemusing. But yet again, it’s based on pure speculation and it makes for a good little clickbait moment in the media. Other than that, it’s just fun and bemusing.”
If Not Norton, Could It Be Relatively Unknown Scottish Actor?
Hot on the heels of James Norton’s jovial dismissal of Bond rumors, another name is quietly making waves in the Bond succession saga: Stuart Martin. The Scottish actor, known for his tough-guy roles and affinity for cinematic heists, might not yet command the spotlight like Norton, but he’s steadily catching the eyes of those who matter.
Martin has reportedly entered “under the radar” discussions with Eon Productions—the venerable custodians of the Bond franchise. Insiders whisper that he’s in “serious contention” to inherit the role that Daniel Craig has left vacant.
If chosen, Martin would be the first Scot to don the tuxedo since the legendary Sean Connery, whose portrayal was so iconic that Ian Fleming incorporated Scottish heritage into Bond’s lineage.
“Stuart is the name that has been discussed in Bond circles by those in the know,” an LA movie consultant with ties to the franchise divulged. The consultant also noted, with a hint of secrecy, “No-one will confirm this because Eon goes all out to deny and shy away from anything concerning casting, but it would be an amazing milestone to have a Scottish Bond again.”
Yet, securing the role of the world’s most famous spy is no small feat. Martin faces a gauntlet of “hurdles to jump through,” including multiple personality screenings with Eon to ensure he fits the Bond mold.
Amidst these clandestine evaluations, Martin has found an unexpected chorus of support from the Bond fanbase. Comments from dedicated followers reflect this sentiment. One remarked on Reddit, “Stuart Martin caught my eye. He seems to have about the same level of fame as Daniel Craig did when he was picked,” encapsulating the hopeful buzz surrounding his candidacy.
Who Will Be the Next Bond?
As the speculation whirls around who will next don the tuxedo and step into 007’s iconic shoes, the field remains wide open. James Norton may have gracefully sidestepped the rumors, but he wouldn’t admit it, would he?
Stuart Martin is a dark horse, and buoyed by fan endorsements and his striking resemblance to a pre-fame Daniel Craig. The Bond producers have a history of surprising audiences, often opting for actors who can redefine the role, rather than those who arrive with star-studded resumes, so Martin ticks this box.
