James Bond's producer has ruled out three huge Hollywood A-list stars who were favourites to undertake the role of 007.
Daniel Craig retired from the role after the latest movie in the money-spinning franchise, titled No Time To Die.
Since the news of Daniel quitting the role was confirmed, a number of big stars have been suggested as favourites for the role including Idris Elba, Tom Hardy and Tom Hiddleston.
In June it was reported that Luther star Idris, 50, that he had held talks with producers after market research suggested he would be a good fit for the role.
However, any hopes of the hunks undertaking the new role may have been dashed as a producer of the film series has said he visualises the role being undertaken by someone in their 30s.
Bond producer Michael G. Wilson told The Sun: "We’ve tried looking at younger people in the past.
"But trying to visualise it doesn’t work. Remember, Bond’s already a veteran.
"He’s had some experience. He’s a person who has been through the wars, so to speak. He’s probably been in the SAS or something.
"He isn’t some kid out of high school that you can bring in and start off. That’s why it works for a 30-something."
Producer Michael's comments leave the door open for Bridgerton star Regé-Jean Page, 34, Bodyguard's Richard Madden, 36, and Superman star Henry Cavill, 39.
James Bond fans might have to wait a bit longer to find out who has been picked for the much-wanted role as chiefs will decide on the villain before choosing the new star of the film franchise.
Barbara Broccoli, 62, says her team are “nowhere near” choosing their man, or woman to fill Daniel Craig's shoes.
She told the Mirror: "We sit down with writers and think ‘What is the world afraid of?’ and ‘Who’s the Bond villain?’ That’s really the main focus at the beginning.
"Once we have a sense of where we want to go, then we’ll start thinking about casting. Normally when we’re making a movie, everybody wants to know who’s going to play Bond, who’s the villain, who’s the lady, who’s singing the song. It’s part of the mystique.
"We’re not just casting someone for one film. We’re casting someone, hopefully, for a decade at least and we’re nowhere near that decision. Multiple pictures over many years – not everybody is willing to do that. You become an ambassador and people recognise you as associated with the character."
Daniel spoke of his decision to leave the role in 2021 as he said: "It’s time for someone else to have a go.
"I’ve hurt myself on every single Bond movie."
The actor has starred in five James Bond films over 15 years. Throughout filming, Daniel has sustained a number of injuries including loosing two teeth filming a fight scene for Casino Royale.
And while filming Spectre in 2015 he injured his knee and had to undergo arthroscopic surgery.
During filming for No Time To Die, Daniel slipped while running down a wet dock and his ankle "exploded", according to the actor.
The shooting schedule was altered while he underwent surgery in London and took 10 weeks to recover.
