Idris Elba has been "part of the conversation" about who will eventually take over as James Bond in the popular film series, the boss of the 007 franchise has revealed.
It comes following the departure of Daniel Craig, 53, from the franchise - with No Time to Die serving as his final film as the role since becoming Bond in Casino Royale (2006).
He's played the iconic secret agent, who was was created by the late author Ian Fleming, in a total of five films over the last 15 years but won't return as the character in the future.
Craig's departure from the franchise has led to speculation over who will be his replacement - with various actors put forward by fans, including Luther star Elba, 49.
And franchise producer Barbara Broccoli, 61 - who co-owns Eon Productions - has revealed that Elba has come up in reference to who will take over in a future instalment.
She made the admission on Deadline 's Crew Call podcast earlier this week, appearing in an episode alongside her brother and fellow producer Michael G. Wilson, 80.
Asked if they have had any conversations with the actor about the role, Broccoli responded: "Well, we know Idris, we're friends with him, and he's a magnificent actor."
She further commented: "And, you know, it's been part of the conversation but it's always difficult to have the conversation when you have someone in the seat."
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Broccoli - the daughter of the late Bond producer Albert R. Broccoli - however said they "want to live in the moment" so discussions about Craig's replacement aren't a priority.
She said that until No Time to Die has "had its run" and they've been able to "reap the benefits" of Craig's tenure, they're "not going to think about or talk about anyone else."
The producer has previously spoken about the future of the character, with her revealing last year that she is open to diversity in the role moving forward.
Broccoli said she suspects that Bond will remain "a man" but suggested she would consider the role being non-binary. She further stated that the next actor may not be white.
She said: "We want the actor to be British. [That's] the key thing. And British, as we know, can be many, many things."
No Time to Die is available to rent and buy through video platforms. It is also available on DVD and Blu-ray.
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