Actors Who Almost Played James Bond (Ranked)

The role of James Bond is one of the most coveted positions in cinematic history and has attracted some of the greatest talents in the industry. Over the decades many actors have come close to donning the tuxedo only to see the opportunity pass for various reasons. Some were deemed too young while others were already committed to major television contracts or rival film projects. This list explores the diverse range of men who were nearly granted a license to kill before the producers made their final decisions.

Peter Snow

Peter Snow was a journalist and broadcaster who underwent a screen test for the role of the secret agent in the late sixties. Producers were looking for a fresh face to replace Sean Connery and considered several non actors for the part. Snow eventually decided to stick with his career in news and reporting rather than pursuing a life on the silver screen. He later became a well known television personality in the United Kingdom for his election coverage and historical programs.

Sam Worthington

Sam Worthington was among the finalists to play the iconic spy during the casting process for ‘Casino Royale’ in the mid two thousands. He participated in an extensive screen test that involved wearing a tuxedo and filming a scene from a previous movie in the series. While he impressed the producers with his physicality they ultimately decided to go in a different direction with Daniel Craig. The actor eventually found massive global success in ‘Avatar’ and ‘Clash of the Titans’ instead.

Julian McMahon

Julian McMahon was heavily considered for the role of 007 when the franchise was looking for a replacement for Pierce Brosnan. Known for his work on the television series ‘Nip Tuck’ the actor brought a suave and dangerous energy to his screen tests. Producers were looking for a specific blend of grit and sophistication that led them to look at several international candidates. Despite the initial buzz he was not chosen and continued his successful career in American television dramas.

John Gavin

John Gavin actually signed a contract to play James Bond in ‘Diamonds Are Forever’ after George Lazenby left the role. However the head of United Artists was determined to bring Sean Connery back and offered a record breaking salary to secure his return. Gavin was paid his full salary but never got the chance to film a single scene as the character. He later transitioned into politics and served as the United States Ambassador to Mexico in the eighties.

Sam Heughan

Sam Heughan auditioned for the part of James Bond when he was in his twenties during the search for a new lead for ‘Casino Royale’. He has spoken openly about the experience and described it as a daunting but exciting opportunity for a young actor. Although he was not selected at the time he later became a global star through his performance in the series ‘Outlander’. His name continues to appear in fan casting discussions whenever the topic of the next Bond arises.

Dougray Scott

Dougray Scott was a front runner to take over the mantle of the world’s most famous spy before the role eventually went to Daniel Craig. He was highly favored by some of the creative team and was considered to have the perfect rugged look for a modern interpretation of the hero. Scheduling conflicts and creative decisions ultimately led to his departure from the shortlist of candidates. Scott has since enjoyed a long career with prominent roles in ‘Mission Impossible 2’ and various television productions.

James Brolin

James Brolin was so close to playing James Bond that he actually moved to London and began pre production for ‘Octopussy’. He had completed multiple screen tests and was ready to film because Roger Moore was initially reluctant to return for another outing. At the last minute the producers convinced Moore to sign on for one more movie and Brolin was released from his commitment. This remains one of the most famous instances of an actor being hired for the role but never appearing on screen.

Henry Golding

Henry Golding became a subject of intense speculation for the role of 007 following his breakout performance in ‘Crazy Rich Asians’. His natural charm and ability to look impeccable in formal wear made him a favorite among critics and fans alike. Golding has addressed the rumors by expressing his admiration for the franchise and its cultural impact. While no official casting has been announced he remains a significant figure in the conversation regarding the future of the series.

Theo James

Theo James has frequently been mentioned as a strong candidate for the next iteration of the British spy character. His performances in ‘The Gentlemen’ and the ‘Divergent’ series demonstrated his ability to lead an action heavy production with charisma. The actor possesses the traditional Bond aesthetic and has the range to play both the grit and the elegance of the character. Fans often point to his screen presence as a reason why he would be an ideal successor to the role.

James Norton

James Norton is often cited by bookmakers and industry insiders as a top choice to lead the next generation of Bond films. His work in ‘McMafia’ and ‘Happy Valley’ showed his capability to play complex characters involved in dangerous worlds. Norton has a classic British appeal that aligns well with the heritage of the franchise. He has remained humble about the rumors while continuing to build an impressive filmography in diverse genres.

Jack Lowden

Jack Lowden is a critically acclaimed actor who has been linked to the 007 role due to his strong performances in ‘Dunkirk’ and ‘Slow Horses’. His portrayal of a young intelligence officer in television helped cement his status as a viable candidate for a spy lead. Lowden has the youthful energy and dramatic weight required to reboot the character for a new era. Producers have reportedly kept an eye on his rising career as they plan the next decade of the series.

Regé-Jean Page

Regé-Jean Page became an overnight sensation and a top Bond contender after starring in the hit series ‘Bridgerton’. His suave demeanor and sophisticated style in the show led many to believe he would be a perfect fit for a modern 007. The actor has since taken on roles in ‘The Gray Man’ and ‘Dungeons and Dragons’ to showcase his versatility in action cinema. He remains one of the most discussed names in the media whenever the casting search is mentioned.

Jamie Dornan

Jamie Dornan has been in the conversation for the role of James Bond since his rise to fame in the ‘Fifty Shades’ trilogy and the series ‘The Fall’. He has proven his ability to play mysterious and intense characters with a hidden depth. Dornan has the physical presence and the acting pedigree to handle the demands of such a high profile franchise. His recent work in ‘Belfast’ further demonstrated his range and appeal to international audiences.

Richard Madden

Richard Madden gained widespread attention as a potential Bond after his starring role in the thriller series ‘Bodyguard’. His performance as a stoic and highly skilled protection officer convinced many that he could handle the action sequences of a spy film. Madden has the rugged charm and intensity that the modern version of the character demands. He has continued to work on large scale projects like ‘Eternals’ and ‘Citadel’ while rumors about his involvement with 007 persist.

Dominic West

Dominic West auditioned for ‘Casino Royale’ and was considered a serious candidate to take the role in a more mature direction. Known for his legendary performance in ‘The Wire’ the actor brought a high level of prestige to the casting process. He later joked about the experience and suggested that he might not have been the right fit for the specific physical demands of the role at the time. West has since played iconic figures in television including a prominent role in ‘The Crown’.

Damian Lewis

Damian Lewis was frequently listed as a favorite to succeed Daniel Craig during the later years of the actors tenure. His work in ‘Homeland’ and ‘Billions’ showed that he could play characters with immense intelligence and a calculating nature. Lewis possesses a distinct look and a commanding presence that would have offered a different take on the character. While he has not been cast he remains one of the most respected actors linked to the franchise.

Gerard Butler

Gerard Butler was considered for the role of James Bond around the time that the series was looking to move away from the Pierce Brosnan era. His breakout success in action films made him an attractive candidate for a more physically imposing version of the spy. Although he did not get the part he went on to lead his own successful action franchises such as the ‘Has Fallen’ series. Butler has often been compared to the character due to his Scottish heritage and rugged screen persona.

Christopher Lambert

Christopher Lambert was a major contender for the role during the transition period in the mid eighties. After his success in ‘Highlander’ he had the international appeal and the mysterious aura required for a secret agent. Producers eventually decided to go with Timothy Dalton to bring a more serious and literary tone to the films. Lambert continued to be a significant star in European and American cinema throughout the following decades.

Sam Neill

Sam Neill famously auditioned for the role of James Bond in the eighties and even filmed a full screen test in a tuxedo. His test is well known among fans for its high quality and the effortless charm he brought to the character. Director John Glen was reportedly very impressed with the performance but producer Cubby Broccoli had reservations. Neill later found massive success in ‘Jurassic Park’ and has enjoyed one of the most consistent careers in Hollywood.

Sean Bean

Sean Bean was a finalist for the role of 007 before Timothy Dalton was ultimately cast in ‘The Living Daylights’. He left such a strong impression on the producers that they later brought him back to play the villainous Alec Trevelyan in ‘GoldenEye’. Bean has the rare distinction of having played both a potential Bond and one of the characters most formidable enemies. His career has been defined by numerous iconic roles in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘Game of Thrones’.

Nicholas Hoult

Nicholas Hoult has transitioned from a child star into a formidable leading man and a frequent name in Bond casting rumors. His work in the ‘X Men’ franchise and ‘The Great’ has shown his ability to balance action with sophisticated dialogue. Hoult possesses the height and the classic looks that have traditionally defined the character of 007. As a versatile actor with a global profile he remains a strong candidate for the upcoming reboot.

Dev Patel

Dev Patel has been championed by fans and critics as a choice that would bring a fresh and modern perspective to the Bond franchise. Since his debut in ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ he has evolved into a powerhouse performer with an impressive physical transformation for ‘Lion’ and ‘Monkey Man’. His inclusion in the conversation reflects a desire for the series to reflect a more diverse and contemporary world. Patel has shown the charisma and the dramatic depth necessary to carry a massive film franchise.

Riz Ahmed

Riz Ahmed is another actor whose name has gained traction as a potential candidate for a groundbreaking iteration of James Bond. His award winning performances in ‘Sound of Metal’ and ‘The Night Of’ have established him as one of the most talented actors of his generation. Ahmed possesses an intensity and a modern sensibility that could redefine the spy for the current era. He has frequently expressed interest in roles that challenge traditional archetypes and allow for complex storytelling.

Paul Mescal

Paul Mescal became one of the most sought after actors in the world following his breakout role in ‘Normal People’. His subsequent work in ‘Aftersun’ and ‘Gladiator II’ has shown that he can handle both intimate drama and large scale action. Mescal has the youthful gravitas and the leading man quality that producers often look for when starting a new era of a franchise. He is currently one of the youngest names frequently associated with the future of the 007 series.

Austin Butler

Austin Butler entered the Bond conversation after his transformative and Oscar nominated performance in ‘Elvis’. He has the classic Hollywood looks and the intense dedication to character that the role of James Bond requires. His role in ‘Masters of the Air’ further demonstrated his ability to play a heroic and disciplined officer in a high stakes environment. Butler is seen as an actor who could bring a sense of old school glamour back to the franchise.

Orlando Bloom

Orlando Bloom was considered for the role of 007 during the early stages of development for ‘Casino Royale’. At the time he was one of the biggest stars in the world thanks to ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’. Producers were looking for an actor who could portray a younger and more vulnerable version of the character. While Bloom did not get the part he remained a dominant figure in blockbuster cinema for many years.

Rex Harrison

Rex Harrison was one of the elite British actors considered for the role of James Bond before the start of the film series in 1962. Known for his sophisticated and aristocratic screen presence he seemed like a natural fit for the character created by Ian Fleming. However the producers eventually decided that a younger and more physically active actor was needed for the action sequences. Harrison went on to win an Academy Award for his legendary role in ‘My Fair Lady’.

Oliver Reed

Oliver Reed was seriously considered for the role of Bond in the late sixties as a potential replacement for Sean Connery. He possessed a raw and masculine energy that would have made for a very different and more aggressive version of the spy. His reputation for a wild lifestyle and unpredictable behavior reportedly made the producers hesitant to commit to him. Reed remained a massive star and delivered iconic performances in films like ‘The Three Musketeers’ and ‘Gladiator’.

Michael Gambon

Michael Gambon once auditioned for the role of 007 and famously told the producers that he did not have the right physique for the part. He jokingly pointed out that he did not have the chest of a traditional action hero during his meeting with Albert Broccoli. The producers were still interested in his immense acting talent but the role ultimately went to George Lazenby. Gambon went on to have a legendary career on stage and screen most notably as Albus Dumbledore.

Ewan McGregor

Ewan McGregor was approached about the possibility of playing James Bond when the search for a new lead began in the early two thousands. He reportedly turned the offer down because he was concerned about being typecast in a single role for too long. Having already starred in the ‘Star Wars’ prequel trilogy he was wary of joining another massive franchise immediately. McGregor has since had a highly diverse career and remains one of the most respected actors in the industry.

Clive Owen

Clive Owen was a fan favorite to take over the role of Bond for many years particularly after his performance in ‘Croupier’. He possessed the perfect blend of stoicism and charm that many felt was missing from the series at the time. Despite the heavy rumors and his obvious suitability for the role Owen never officially signed on to play the character. He instead focused on a variety of acclaimed projects including ‘Children of Men’ and ‘Inside Man’.

Ralph Fiennes

Ralph Fiennes met with the producers of the Bond series in the early nineties to discuss taking over the role for ‘GoldenEye’. While he was a strong candidate the producers eventually felt that he might be too sophisticated for the physical demands of the part. Fiennes did eventually join the franchise years later playing the role of M starting in ‘Skyfall’. This allowed him to become a vital part of the Bond universe without having to lead the action himself.

Liam Neeson

Liam Neeson was offered the chance to play James Bond in the mid nineties before Pierce Brosnan was officially cast. He has stated in interviews that his late wife Natasha Richardson told him she would not marry him if he took the role. Neeson decided to prioritize his personal life and passed on the opportunity to become the world’s most famous spy. He later found a second career as a major action star with the massive success of ‘Taken’.

Hugh Jackman

Hugh Jackman was contacted by the producers of the Bond franchise around the time that Daniel Craig was being considered. He was already deeply committed to playing Wolverine in the ‘X Men’ films and felt that he could not balance two major franchises at once. Jackman also felt that the scripts at the time were becoming too stylized and needed to return to a more grounded tone. He has expressed no regrets about the decision and has praised the work Daniel Craig did with the character.

Michael Fassbender

Michael Fassbender was a prominent name on the shortlist of actors who could have played the rebooted version of the character. His intense performance in ‘300’ and his later work in ‘Inglourious Basterds’ showed his potential as a leading man in an action thriller. Fassbender has the cool and calculating demeanor that is often associated with the literary version of James Bond. While he did not get the role he became a major star in both independent films and blockbusters.

Henry Cavill

Henry Cavill was the final runner up to Daniel Craig for the role in ‘Casino Royale’ and was famously told he was just a bit too young. Director Martin Campbell later stated that Cavill looked magnificent in the screen test and gave a very strong performance. The actor has since proven his ability to handle high stakes action and spy themes in ‘The Man from UNCLE’ and ‘Mission Impossible Fallout’. He remains one of the most popular choices among fans to eventually take over the mantle.

Tom Hiddleston

Tom Hiddleston became a front runner for the role of Bond following his acclaimed performance in the spy series ‘The Night Manager’. His ability to play a suave and capable undercover agent convinced many that he was the natural successor to the role. Hiddleston has the classic British education and the sophisticated charm that has defined the character for decades. While the rumors were intense he has continued to focus on his iconic role as Loki and other diverse projects.

James Mason

James Mason was a top choice for the role of James Bond during the casting of the very first film ‘Dr No’. He was a major star with an incredible voice and a commanding screen presence that would have suited the character perfectly. Mason was only willing to sign on for two films while the producers wanted a much longer commitment to build a franchise. This disagreement over the contract led the producers to search for a lesser known actor like Sean Connery.

Mel Gibson

Mel Gibson was considered for the role of 007 in the eighties when the producers were looking for a high profile star to lead the series. At the time he was one of the biggest box office draws in the world and had the perfect blend of humor and intensity. Producer Albert Broccoli ultimately decided against casting an American actor as he believed James Bond must remain British. Gibson went on to achieve massive success as both an actor and an Oscar winning director.

Patrick McGoohan

Patrick McGoohan was offered the role of James Bond twice and turned it down on both occasions for moral reasons. The actor had a strict personal code and was uncomfortable with the characters use of violence and his womanizing behavior. McGoohan went on to create and star in the cult classic series ‘The Prisoner’ which dealt with themes of espionage and identity. He is remembered as one of the few actors who walked away from the chance to be a global icon.

Burt Reynolds

Burt Reynolds was offered the role of James Bond after George Lazenby departed the franchise following just one film. The actor famously turned down the opportunity because he believed that an American should not play the British icon. He later admitted that he regretted the decision but still held the conviction that the character required a specific heritage. Reynolds went on to become one of the biggest box office draws in Hollywood during the late seventies.

Richard Burton

Richard Burton was one of the early favorites to play the secret agent when the films were first being developed in the late fifties. He was a legendary stage and screen actor with a powerful presence and a voice that commanded attention. Burton reportedly asked for a salary that was far beyond what the budget for the first film could accommodate. His career remained focused on prestigious dramatic roles and he became one of the most famous actors of his era.

Clint Eastwood

Clint Eastwood was approached to play James Bond after Sean Connery left the role for the first time in the late sixties. Eastwood declined the offer because he felt that the character should be played by an English actor rather than an American. He was already a major star in the western genre and was beginning to move into directing his own films. His refusal led the producers to continue their search for a leading man with a British Commonwealth background.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba has been the subject of more James Bond casting rumors than perhaps any other actor in history. His performance in the series ‘Luther’ showed that he could play a brilliant and physically capable investigator with ease. Despite the constant media speculation Elba has often played down the rumors while acknowledging the compliment of being considered. He remains a fan favorite and a symbol of how the character could evolve in the future.

Cary Grant

Cary Grant was the original choice of producer Albert Broccoli to play the legendary spy in ‘Dr No’ during the early sixties. The actor was a close friend of the producer and even served as the best man at his wedding. Grant ultimately declined the offer because he felt he was too old to commit to a long term film contract. He also preferred to work on standalone projects rather than being tied to a single character for several years.

Christian Bale

Christian Bale was approached about the role of James Bond before the producers eventually chose Daniel Craig for the reboot. Known for his intense preparation and physical transformations Bale would have brought a very different energy to the part. Reports suggest that he was not interested in the role at the time as he was focused on his work as Batman. His career has since been defined by an incredible range of characters and multiple award winning performances.

Tom Hardy

Tom Hardy is frequently cited as a top contender for the role of 007 due to his rugged charm and intense acting style. His work in films like ‘Mad Max Fury Road’ and ‘Inception’ has demonstrated his ability to lead massive action productions. Hardy possesses the physical presence and the enigmatic quality that would suit a more modern and gritty version of the character. Fans continue to rank him as one of the most exciting possibilities for the future of the series.

Cillian Murphy

Cillian Murphy has long been admired as a potential James Bond especially after his iconic performance in ‘Peaky Blinders’. His ability to play a cold and calculating leader with a sophisticated edge makes him a compelling choice for a spy. Following his Academy Award winning turn in ‘Oppenheimer’ his status as one of the finest actors in the world has been firmly established. Many believe he could bring a unique psychological depth to the role that would honor the original novels.

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