His name is Bond, James Bond, the iconic British secret agent who works for MI6 and also goes by his iconic code name 007. His action films are known forfancy high-tech cars, dramatic scores, beautiful women and some great suites. His character has been portrayed in 26 films by seven different actors spanning from Sean Connery to Daniel Craig. Not bad for a character that was created by novelist Ian Fleming in 1953. Given the exclusive club of actors who have portrayed Bond, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that there is some controversy as far as who should be next in line to order that famous Martini, shaken not stirred. But in this case, the issue not talent, but race.

The controversy about one of the front runners for the iconic role, Idris Elba is very well known. For example, author Anthony Horowitz, who has written a lot of continuations to Bond novels told The Mail that Elba would be “a bit too rough to play the part” adding that “It’s not a color issue. I think he is probably a bit too ‘street’ for Bond”. He later apologized for the remark stating that he used a poor choice of words. Now another actress is coming out against the potential casting.

The Guardian reports that Joanna Lumley, who is known for her role in Absolutely Fabulous and also appeared in a minor role the Bond film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, had this to say during an interview with Radio Times:

“Idris Elba is stunning but I don’t think he is right for Bond, who is quite clearly described in the book,” she said. “I’m colour-blind when it comes to acting, but Idris Elba is just a zonking great star anyway.” Then she suggested a different project for the star, “I think ‘Idris Elba for fab new fabness’ is what I would say.”

There is a list of stars that are being considered to take over the role like Tom Hardey and Tom Hiddleston. Personally I feel that Elba would make a great James Bond, but then again I feel that he would do a fantastic job in a lot of roles out there as his name is always brought up when fans cast roles. Let us focus more on how the actor develops the character instead of what he looks like. What do you think? Are you up for an Irdis Elba James Bond? Or do you agree with the criticism? Chime in below!

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Source: The Guardian