Next James Bond set for major shake up as star hints fan favourite to be axed

The James Bond franchise could be in for a major shakeup that may see a fan favourite disposed of, according to one of its leading actors.

Ben Whishaw, who portrayed Q in Skyfall, said the next Bond film could “wipe the slate clean”, meaning a return for him is not a foregone conclusion.

Upon being asked by Screen Rant about whether he will be taking on the role again, he said: “Your guess is as good as mine. I have not heard anything.

“I have a suspicion that they might sort of wipe the slate clean and start again, so maybe not, sadly.”

The future direction of the franchise continues to be up for discussion as a host of names enter the mix for the role of 007.

One of the actors hotly tipped to take the reins is Aaron Taylor-Johnson, who met with producers Michael G.Wilson and Barbara Broccoli to explore the possibility.

The meeting is reported to have gone “well”, enhancing Taylor-Johnson’s future prospects when it comes to the role of Bond.

Ben Whishaw has portrayed Q in the last three James Bond films
Matt Crossick

Other names tipped for the spot include Lucien Laviscount, Will Pouler, Harry Lawtey, Regé-Jean Page, Jamie Campbell Bower, Jacob Elordi, Tom Holland, Henry Cavill, Tom Hardy, Sam Heughan, Jamie Dornan, and Idris Elba.

A recent interview with producer Michael G. Wilson has potentially dispelled the suggestion that the James Bond production team are looking for a younger candidate to fill the boots of 007.

He revealed they are looking for someone who has had some life experience and can therefore relate to the Bond character.

Daniel Craig took on the role of James Bond for five installments
Matt Crossick

Another actor who has thrust himself into contention in recent times is James Norton, who has received wide acclaim with his performances in BBC drama Happy Valley.

His odds have been slashed by Coral in the wake of his impressive showings, going from 10-1 to 3-1.

The latest James Bond installment, No Time To Die, saw 007 killed off in the concluding stages.

The character's death is not the end of James Bond, with the search for a new leading actor being conducted thoroughly, but a significant shift in direction was signalled by the move.

Previous Bond Daniel Craig made the role his own for five different films, starting with Casino Royale in 2006 and ending with 2021's No Time To Die.