Luke Evans addresses James Bond speculation

Actor said taking on the role after Daniel Craig would be ‘daunting’

Luke Evans has said he would “jump at the chance” to play James Bond after Daniel Craig’s fifth and final outing as the spy.

The actor, 42, told The Mirror: “I think I’ve cut my teeth very well in movies I’ve done and I’ve enjoyed every second of it. It’s a phenomenal job, a phenomenal franchise, an incredible role. I have to say though, it’s a daunting task for any actor to play the role after Daniel Craig. No one knows what’s happening.”

He added: “It’s a very secretive process and it’s a wonderful role. I would jump at the chance, as would many actors in my position, so we shall see.”

Evans would be the second Welsh actor to star as the secret agent, following Timothy Dalton, if he secured the role.

The Pembrokeshire Murders star is one of the many actors rumoured to play Bond. Others include Tom Hardy, James Norton, Cillian Murphy, Sam Heughan and Regé-Jean Page.

Tom Hiddleston, who is also rumoured to take on the role, said last week: “What can I say that you don’t already know? It’s interesting in itself that I’ve suddenly become very aware of what I’m saying, is it not? Because there’s something about what I’m saying that becomes the story. Not for you, but for the world outside. Whatever I say, I’ve found, generated more questions.”

Luke Evans (Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock)

No Time to Die is scheduled for release on 30 September in the UK and 8 October 2021 in the US.

The film was originally set to be released in April 2020, but has been repeatedly pushed back because of the pandemic.