Singer Sir Tom Jones revealed this week that he was once considered for the role of 007 in the James Bond films, but producers decided his public profile would overshadow the character. When we asked panellists who they would like to see as 007, they came up with varied and at times surprising suggestions.
- Following in the tradition of handsome young men, suggestions such as David Tennant, Will Smith, Australian actor Julian McMahon, Scottish actor Gerard Butler, David Beckham and Robbie Williams were popular.
- Some respondents would like to see a more humorous edge to the sharp and cynical character, and suggested comedians such as Rhod Gilbert, Russell Brand, Peter Kay, Keith Lemon and even Billy Connolly.
- A few panellists thought that politicians should be cast in the role, with Tony Blair a bizarrely popular choice, followed by Nick Clegg and David Cameron. One respondent obviously had Strictly on the brain, and even suggested Ann Widdecombe.
- Several people would like to see a female in the Bond role, with one person simply pleading ‘a woman!’ Other suggestions include Keira Knightley and Tilda Swinton.
- Others made suggestions closer to home, with ‘me’ and ‘my husband’ both suggested.
Current James Bond, actor Daniel Craig, has been recast in the role of 007 for the next Bond film. However, with production of the film suspended due to financial uncertainty in the future of MGM studio’s future, perhaps producers should consider some of the more low budget options suggested by the panel.
