James Norton has addressed a convincing fan theory that he's set to be the next James Bond, telling an interviewer that "it's so weird and bemusing" to be tipped for the role. The iconic film franchise has been searching for the next 007 since Daniel Craig quit the role back in 2016 - however, Bond boss Barbara Broccoli is yet to confirm his successor. Former Grantchester and Playing Nice star James has been tipped to be the next bond for years, with fans even spotting a major clue that he may have signed on the dotted 007 line already. Last month, Playing Nice viewers noticed that James Norton's character didn't wear a tuxedo at a black-tie event, playing into the long-running rumour that actors can't wear tuxedos in other projects while under contract as Bond.
Speaking to TV presenter Alex Zane on the BAFTA Film Awards red carpet on Sunday afternoon, James addressed rumours that he could be the next James Bond. When told that he's the bookies' favourite, James said: "Whoever is deciding on these odds needs to get a new job. It's so weird and bemusing.". He added: "Yet again it's based on pure speculation. It makes for a good clickbait moment in the media but other than that, it's fun and bemusing I guess." Alex went on to reveal the tuxedo fan theory, to which James sarcastically replied: "I mean if that's not evidence to seal the deal, I don't know what is. I mean, it has nothing to do with the fact that the character felt uncomfortable wearing a tux and felt low key.
"That's obviously irrelevant. What can I say? Undeniable. You got me. Whoever spotted that, ten points." When Alex told him that it sounded like he was confirming his Bond news, James quickly replied: "I'm not. Please, don't follow up with another story.". James will be presenting an award at tonight's BAFTA Film Awards alongside Joy co-star Thomasin McKenzie, while Doctor Who's David Tennant will be hosting the star-studded ceremony. Pamela Anderson, who was snubbed at this year's BAFTAs for her role in The Last Showgirl, stunned on the awards' red carpet this afternoon in a make-up free look.
Meanwhile, Molly-Mae Hague was among the celebrities on the BAFTA Film Awards red carpet, as well as Wicked's Jeff Goldblum, Game of Thrones' Gwendoline Christie and even Wallace and Gromit. The BAFTA Film Awards 2025 begin tonight at 7pm on BBC One. Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads.
