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Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Joel Leaver

Idris Elba addresses James Bond rumours as he dubs Luther 'a little bit more relatable'

Idris Elba has further addressed speculation about potentially playing James Bond, with him saying that such rumours are one of the "biggest compliments" for an actor.

The actor, 50, has been put forward by fans as a possible replacement for Daniel Craig, 53, following the latter's departure from the iconic film franchise in 2021.

Daniel played the secret agent - who was created by late author Ian Fleming - in five films over a 15 year period but he won't be returning as the character in the future.

Franchise producer Barbara Broccoli, 61 - who co-owns Eon Productions - suggested last year that Idris' name had come up in conversations about Daniel's replacement.

Idris has previously addressed speculation and has now further stated that he's keen to continue playing DCI John Luther instead, whilst promoting film Luther: The Fallen Sun.

Idris Elba has spoken about James Bond rumours whilst promoting Luther: The Fallen Sun (Dave J. Hogan/Getty Images)

Idris addressed the possibility of playing James Bond during an interview on Heart Breakfast this morning, with him appearing alongside co-star Andy Serkis, 58.

Radio host Amanda Holden, 52, asked during the chat: "How are you feeling about the sorts of rumours out there about James Bond and your name being attached to it?"

In response, Idris said: "It is one of the biggest compliments I can ever get as an actor. You know, the role of Bond is such a coveted role and to be considered for it is amazing."

The actor has suggested he's keen to continue playing DCI John Luther (Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
He spoke about it on Heart Breakfast with Amanda Holden (centre right) and Jamie Theakston (right), whilst a guest with Andy Serkis (centre left) (Heart)

Idris continued: "But honestly, I always secretly felt that Luther is my answer to that. It's not as espionage it's not you know, suave, it's you know, a relatable guy that's going to catch bad guys that's all I'm you know, wanting to do really".

The actor further mentioned the 007 franchise during an interview on Magic FM earlier this week, which is set to be broadcast on Monday (March 6) next week.

He also mentioned James Bond whilst talking to Harriet Scott (right) and Emma B (left) for Magic Radio (Getty)

He said whilst on the radio show: "The Bond series is an incredible staple to the UK and the world right, but Luther could take up some of that real estate".

He added: "It is not about espionage, but it is about how to catch them. I think Luther tends to be a little bit more relatable, you know grounded. You know guys that creep from under your bed".

Listen to Heart Breakfast with Jamie Theakston and Amanda Holden weekdays from 6:30am – 10am across the UK and on Global Player.

You can hear the full interview with Idris Elba on Monday (March 6) on Magic Radio Breakfast from 6am.

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