Aaron Taylor-Johnson is set to be the next James Bond, according to reports.
Famous for roles in films such as Kick-Ass and Avengers: Age Of Ultron, the 33-year-old actor is apparently yet to officially accept the iconic part, but a source told The Sun: “Bond is Aaron’s job, should he wish to accept it.”
The source added: “The formal offer is on the table and they are waiting to hear back.”
Eon Productions, which produces the Bond films, is also said to be preparing to shoot a new 007 movie this year.
The Sun’s source added: “As far as Eon is concerned, Aaron is going to sign his contract in the coming days and they can start preparing for the big announcement.”
Taylor-Johnson is “an incredibly talented actor,” the source is also quoted as saying. They called him the “perfect person to play Bond and will pick up well from where Daniel Craig left off”.
Taylor-Johnson was asked by Numero magazine last week about rumours linking him with the role. In response, he said: “I find it charming and wonderful that people see me in that role. I take it as a great compliment.”
After Daniel Craig hung up his tuxedo following the release of No Time To Die, speculation has mounted about who will become the seventh actor to play the spy in the official films.
Craig starred with Eva Green in his first Bond film, Casino Royale, in 2006. Pic: Reuters
Taylor-Johnson would follow Sean Connery, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan and Craig in taking on the part, if his selection is confirmed. Connery starred in Dr No, the first official film, in 1962.
Idris Elba was long tipped to take up the role, but the 51-year-old said in September that “disgusting” comments about his race put him off.
He told the SmartLess podcast: “Those that weren’t happy about the idea made the whole thing disgusting and off-putting because it became about race.
“It became about nonsense and I got the brunt of it.”
Idris Elba, known for playing Luther, has been heavily linked to the role
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Sky News has contacted William Morris Endeavour, Taylor-Johnson’s talent agency, for comment.