Austin Butler recently addressed rumors about becoming the next James Bond in the upcoming 26th film of the franchise, which Denis Villeneuve will direct in 2025. Having worked with Villeneuve on Dune: Part Two (2024) as Feyd-Rautha, Butler shared his thoughts on the possibility of joining Villeneuve’s 007 project. He explicitly ruled out playing James Bond but expressed interest in portraying a villain instead.
American Actor Cites Nationality as Barrier to Bond Role
During an interview with Hits Radio UK, Butler made it clear that he does not see himself as a suitable candidate for James Bond due to his American nationality. He stated,
No calls as far as that goes, but I love that man [Villeneuve],
showing respect for the director Denis Villeneuve. On the possibility of playing Bond, Butler said,
Would I play James Bond? I don’t think that would be a good idea. Because I’m an American. I could do an accent but I think that would be kind of sacrilegious,
pointing to the tradition of British actors taking on the role.
Belief in English Actor as Essential for James Bond
Butler emphasized that the James Bond character should be portrayed by an English actor, reinforcing the longstanding cultural ties of the role. He added,
Those movies meant so much to me, but I think that it’s gotta be somebody who is from [England],
underlining his respect for the British heritage tied to the role.
Open to Playing a Villain in Future Villeneuve Projects
While dismissing the Bond role, Butler expressed enthusiasm for playing a villain in another film directed by Villeneuve beyond Dune: Part Two. He remarked,
Villain? That would be alright. I’d do that.
This preference aligns with the direction Butler wants for his acting career within the Villeneuve collaboration.
Similar Views Shared by Glen Powell on Bond Role
Butler’s stance resembles that of fellow actor Glen Powell, who also distanced himself from James Bond rumors. Powell told The Hollywood Reporter,
A Texan should not play James Bond,
emphasizing the importance of nationality in the casting decision.
Background on James Bond Portrayals and Franchise Continuity
The James Bond series is based on the spy character created by author Ian Fleming and produced by Eon Productions. Over time, six actors have assumed the role of 007: Sean Connery (Scottish), George Lazenby (Australian), Roger Moore (English), Timothy Dalton (British), Pierce Brosnan (Irish), and Daniel Craig (English). Although mostly British, the list includes actors from other nationalities, showing some precedent for non-English representation.
The most recent Bond film, No Time to Die, was released in 2021 with Daniel Craig as the lead. As of now, the studios have yet to announce who will succeed Craig in the next installment directed by Denis Villeneuve.
