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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Entertainment
Catherine Shoard

Idris Elba says audiences would never accept a black actor playing James Bond: ‘That’s not what they like in their culture’

James Bond Idris Elba Nina Gold
Idris Elba in a blue suit and dark scarf smiles softly at a red carpet event
His links to the role were ‘never legit’ … Idris Elba at last year’s Venice international film festival. Photograph: Stefania D’Alessandro/WireImage

Idris Elba has refuted rumours that he was seriously in contention to play James Bond after Daniel Craig’s departure in 2021.

The actor, 53, who is currently promoting new film Masters of the Universe, told British GQ the conversation linking him to the role was “never legit”.

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