Aaron Taylor-Johnson demonstrates his potential as the next James Bond, sharing alluring beach photos that evoke memories of Daniel Craig’s iconic emergence from the sea in Casino Royale.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson has solidified his candidacy for the next James Bond by sharing striking beach photos that evoke memories of Daniel Craig’s portrayal in Casino Royale.
The 34-year-old Kick-Ass star took to Instagram on Tuesday to showcase a recent romantic getaway with director Sam, 57.
While displaying his gym-toned physique against the ocean backdrop, he bore a striking resemblance to the iconic images of Bond actor Daniel, 56, from the 2006 film—this comes amid reports that Aaron has been approached to assume the role.
Fans of the English star will recall the memorable scene in which a muscular Daniel Craig emerges from the sea in the Bahamas in Casino Royale.
As Aaron puffed on a cigarette and took in the sea views during his holiday with his partner, his fit physique radiated the same energy as Daniel’s character in the film.
Aaron captioned his post simply with, “Little getaway,” accompanied by pink love heart emojis.
These snapshots arrive in the wake of reports indicating that Aaron has been offered the role of the new James Bond, succeeding Daniel Craig.
The Sun reported that the British actor had been “formally offered the opportunity to play James Bond,” putting an end to months of speculation about Craig’s successor. However, insiders have since denied that he has been officially cast in the role, leaving the speculation ongoing.
When addressing the rumors about potentially stepping into Bond’s shoes last week, Aaron remained coy, stating to Numero, “I find it charming and wonderful that people see me in that role. I take it as a great compliment.”
A poll conducted by Lottoland among 2,000 British Bond fans revealed that Luther star Idris Elba was the top choice for the role. Other notable names on the 20-strong list included Tom Hardy, Henry Cavill, and Oscar-winner Cillian Murphy.
The long-running Bond franchise is well-known for elevating its leading actors to global superstardom.
The franchise is not hesitant to cast unconventional stars in the role; the late Sean Connery, one of the most recognizable Bonds, had only appeared in a series of television films before taking on the titular role of the British spy in 1962’s Dr. No, which launched him to international stardom.
While Idris Elba was the fan-favorite choice, he may not assume the role, as he ruled himself out last year to focus on his Netflix deal, where he is starring in Luther: The Fallen Sun. In February 2023, he addressed the ongoing speculation about him taking over as Ian Fleming’s iconic British spy, noting that, although he had been a bookmaker’s favorite, he was eager to explore other roles and had even submitted a list of suggested actors to producer Barbara Broccoli for the 007 role.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson began acting as a child and has seen his career flourish, with three significant film appearances this year alone. He has previously received two BAFTA nominations and won the Best Supporting Actor award at the Golden Globes for Nocturnal Animals.
His most significant upcoming role will see him re-enter the superhero universe, portraying the titular character in Kraven the Hunter, the fifth installment in Sony’s Spider-Man Universe, which is set to be released in cinemas on December 13.
This film marks the first time Sony Pictures has limited a Marvel feature to audiences aged over 18, a decision prompted by a sneak peek showing Aaron’s character biting the flesh off a poacher and spitting it out, as noted by attendee Rob Keyes on Twitter.
While Marvel has previously released R-rated films such as Logan and Deadpool, Sony has historically rated its Marvel films—like the Tom Holland-led Spider-Man series, Venom, and Morbius—as PG-13.
Aaron secured the role of Sergei Kravinoff, the fur-clad big-game hunter and Russian conservationist, after competing against notable actors including Brad Pitt, Keanu Reeves, John David Washington, and Adam Driver for the multi-picture contract.
