David Oyelowo is next up to play James Bond… after
snaring the role in a forthcoming audiobook.
The star of ‘Selma’, in which he played Martin Luther
King Jr, was personally invited to take on the part by
the estate of Ian Fleming, the creator of 007.
Though it’s a rumour that has oft baffled its subject, it
appears he’s now beaten Idris Elba to the accolade.
Elba had long been rumoured as a possible replacement
once Daniel Craig relinquishes the role of Bond, but had
frequently denied any supposed meetings with Bond
studio Eon.
“I am officially the only person on planet Earth who can
legitimately say: ‘I am the new James Bond’ – even
saying that name is the cinematic equivalent of doing
the ‘to be or not to be’ speech,” said Oyelowo of his
appointment.
“I was asked specifically by the Fleming estate, which is
really special.”
Speaking about the previous talk of Elba taking up the
role, he said: “A titan on screen, he has all the qualities
that you’d want in a James Bond. Because films and TV
affect culture, a black Bond would be a cultural event. A
statement… beyond just entertainment.”
His first job will be to play Bond, and other characters,
in 'Trigger Mortis’, penned by Anthony Horowitz from a
commission by the Fleming estate.
Oyelowo isn’t the first black actor to play Bond,
however.
That honour goes to ‘Holby City’ star Hugh Quarshie,
who voiced Bond in an audio book version of ‘Dr No’,
released last year.
“What an honour to have an actor as talented as David
to read my take on Bond. He has a brilliant voice and
talent for bringing out the nuances of dialogue and
characters,” Horowitz added.
'Trigger Mortis’ was released earlier this year, coinciding
with Fleming’s 107th birthday, and takes place two
weeks after the events of 'Goldfinger’.
Odds on Oyelowo becoming the next Bond in the movies
have now been slashed. William Hill is offering 5/1 in a
dramatic drop from the previous 50/1.
Damien Lewis is still favourite to take over, at 5/2, with
Idris Elba at 3/1 and Tom Hardy at 4/1.
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