And while Idris Elba has always been one of the frontrunners for the iconic film character, it’s only been speculation over the years. Now though, as 007 becomes a free agent, legitimate chatter around Elba being “involved” in the Bond series is starting to heat up once again. According to Barbara Broccoli and her brother Michael G Wilson, who have produced the last nine Bond films including Casino Royale, Quantum Of Solace, Skyfall and Spectre, the British-born actor is “part of the conversation” to be the next 007.

Speaking with Deadline’s “Crew Call” podcast, Broccoli addressed the speculation over the enormous open role. She said, “A lot of fans want to see Idris Elba in a tuxedo." "Well, we know Idris, we're friends with him, and he's a magnificent actor,” Broccoli said. "And, you know, it's been part of the conversation, but it's always difficult to have the conversation when you have someone in the seat.” She added: "I think we have decided that until No Time To Die has had its run and Daniel has been able to well, we've all been able to savor reap the benefits of Daniel's wonderful tenure, we're not gonna think about, or talk about anybody else, actors to play the role or storylines, we just want to live in the moment." If Elba were able to land the role, he’ll become the seventh actor to play James Bond, following in the footsteps of Sean Connery, Daniel Craig, Pierce Brosnan, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, and Timothy Dalton.