Idris Elba, the celebrated actor known for his roles in major franchises such as the MCU and DCU, has long been considered a perfect fit for the iconic James Bond role. His suitability for the character was showcased in 2016 through the action thriller The Take, which has recently gained renewed attention on streaming platforms. This film serves, unintentionally, as a compelling audition for the legendary spy character, captivating audiences anew.
The Take, directed by James Watkins, features Elba as a skilled operative navigating a terrorist plot in Paris. Alongside Richard Madden, recognized from Game of Thrones, Elba plays a rogue CIA agent teamed with an expert pickpocket to thwart a deadly conspiracy. Despite its initial mixed critical reception, the movie’s tense action sequences and Elba’s commanding presence have driven its resurgence on STARZ, placing it alongside titles like Jason Statham’s Expend4bles sequel and Mel Gibson’s Flight Risk.
Idris Elba‘s Decision to Move Beyond the Bond Role
In 2023, Idris Elba publicly announced that he would no longer pursue the role of James Bond, emphasizing his focus on solidifying the character John Luther, which he has portrayed in the long-running television series. After nearly a decade of developing Luther’s story, Elba expressed a strong commitment to expanding the detective’s presence into cinema rather than stepping into the shoes of the iconic British spy.
“It’s very dark. We’ve been working on the television show for about 10 years and so the natural ambition is to take it to the big screen, and so we’re here with the first movie. You know, a lot of people talk about another character that begins with ‘J’ and ends with ‘B,’ but I’m not going to be that guy. I’m going to be John Luther. That’s who I am.” —Idris Elba, Actor
Racial Backlash and Its Impact on Elba‘s Bond Prospects
Elba revealed that although he received many compliments worldwide on being considered for James Bond, a segment of the fanbase reacted with racist hostility. This backlash deeply affected him and contributed to his decision to walk away from the role, as the conversation shifted from admiration to divisive and hateful discourse. He described the experience as “disgusting and off-putting,” underscoring how the racial element tainted what could have been a career-defining opportunity.
“Essentially, it was a huge compliment that every corner of the world except from some corners, which we will not talk about, were really happy about the idea that I could be considered. 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, Actor
Despite continued support from fans and fellow actors like former Bond villain Mads Mikkelsen, Elba’s age of 52 presents another practical barrier to his portrayal of the 007 character, especially given the franchise’s desire for a younger lead under new director Denis Villeneuve and producer Amazon. Nevertheless, many speculate Elba could excel as a future villain within the Bond universe or in other high-profile roles.
Cast and Characters That Brought The Take to Life
The Take’s cast includes Idris Elba as Sean Briar, a resourceful CIA agent. Richard Madden plays Michael Mason, a master pickpocket drawn into Briar’s dangerous mission. Supporting roles by Charlotte Le Bon as Zoe Naville and Kelly Reilly as Karen Dacre add depth to the film’s narrative, contributing to the layered portrayal of espionage and intrigue that mirrors elements expected in a James Bond story.
The Continuing Legacy of Idris Elba’s Bond Audition on Streaming Platforms
While The Take did not achieve widespread acclaim upon release—earning critic and audience scores below 50 percent on Rotten Tomatoes—its resurgence highlights the enduring appeal of Elba in the action hero archetype. For fans curious about “what might have been” for the James Bond franchise, this film acts as a fascinating glimpse at Elba’s potential with the tuxedo and license to kill. Its rise on streaming services underscores how audiences continue to revisit and reassess performances in the evolving landscape of action cinema.
With Elba firmly committed to his own iconic roles and the James Bond franchise moving forward without him, The Take stands as a testament to his capabilities. The film’s newfound popularity may also influence future casting decisions and inspire producers to explore fresh directions within the action genre, balancing legacy with innovation.
