James Bond Will Reportedly Remain a Man and Still Be British or From the Commonwealth, Pierce Brosnan Insists 007 Must Not Be American, and Longlegs Director Says 'F**k Jeff Bezos'

The James Bond rumor mill is churning again following Amazon's acquisition of full creative control over 007. The biggest question remains: who will play the next 007? A new report offers some clarity: James Bond will remain a man and will be British or from a Commonwealth country, effectively ruling out actors like Ryan Gosling.

The Mail on Sunday cited an internal Amazon memo confirming this decision regarding Bond's gender and nationality. This news is likely welcome to Pierce Brosnan, who played Bond from 1995 to 2002. He previously told The Telegraph that a British Bond is a given.

Potential Next James Bonds (Who Haven't Played 007)

26 ImagesThe Commonwealth clause opens the door to Australian actor Chris Hemsworth, who has publicly expressed interest in the role. In 2019, he told Balance magazine that he'd love the opportunity, acknowledging the decision ultimately rests with the Bond producers. Following the Mail on Sunday report, speculation has intensified, with Today Show Australia even declaring Hemsworth's casting a "sure thing."

Uncertainty surrounds the future of the franchise following Amazon's acquisition and the reduced involvement of long-time producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson. While there's been speculation about a Bond TV series, Variety reports that a new film remains the top priority. Amazon is reportedly searching for a new producer, with David Heyman (known for his work on the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films) as a potential candidate.

Christopher Nolan's reported interest in directing a Bond film after Tenet was reportedly rejected by Broccoli, who wouldn't relinquish final cut. Nolan went on to direct the Oscar-winning Oppenheimer.

Amazon's control has drawn criticism. One director, during a Reddit AMA, bluntly stated their refusal to direct a Bond film due to their opposition to Jeff Bezos.

Fan speculation continues, with names like Tom Hardy, Idris Elba, James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and the fan-favorite Henry Cavill frequently mentioned.

Who’d You Pick as the Next Bond? --------------------------------

Henry CavillTom HardyChris HemsworthJames McAvoyMichael FassbenderAaron Taylor-JohnsonIdris ElbaSomeone else (tell us who in the comments!)

AnswerSee ResultsAccording to Variety, Amazon cannot finalize any Bond-related hiring until the completion of its deal with Broccoli and Wilson, expected later this year. This follows reports of a tense stalemate between the Broccoli family and Amazon, leaving the future of the franchise temporarily uncertain, as reported by the Wall Street Journal.

Amazon and Eon Productions have yet to comment publicly.