'Let's Not Make It Woke': Idris Elba's Blunt Take on the Black James Bond Rumors

Actor Idris Elba is many things. He’s a knight (King Charles just honored Sir Elba with a knighthood on June 2), he’s a humanitarian, he’s a Golden Globe for Best Actor award winner (for his role on BBC’s Luther), and he’s a two-time SAG Award winner. But he’s not James Bond, nor will he ever be 007. At least, according to the Masters of the Universe star in a recent interview.

Now that Daniel Craig has officially retired his 007 status, the search is on. Per a statement from Amazon MGM, “While we don’t plan to comment on specific details during the casting process, we’re excited to share more news with 007 fans as soon as the time is right.” But for Elba enthusiasts, that news will not include Sir Idris. 

The actor opened up to British GQ, giving a bit of a primer on the Idris Elba-James Bond lore: “It was never legit. It was always a rumor.” 

According to Elba, it all started during the Italian premiere of Quantum of Solace in 2008 with Daniel Craig. 

Craig told the press that Barack Obama’s victory could pave the way, saying, “If we can have a black U.S. president, we can have a black James Bond.” He continued, “And I think it’s the right moment for a black James Bond.”

While that didn’t happen, rumors swirled that Elba was a contender for the role. Even though his fans were all for it, the actor never really saw it happening: “I’ve always felt that it’s not a realistic thing.” 

Elba added, “James Bond was written how he was written for a reason. But I was complimented by it. And also, I think, in realistic terms, some markets just don’t go for that. Bond is big all over the world. And [audiences] won’t [all] go for a Black male, an African male, playing Bond. That’s not what they like in their culture. Period.”

If you’re wondering whether Elba thinks Bond could use a makeover — he doesn’t: “Bond is so unrealistic, so a hint of reality is good, but let’s not try and make it woke. I think you’ve got to be pure to what it is: escapism. Don’t try and answer the world’s taste. Just be Bond.” 

What do fans think about Idris Elba playing James Bond?

Fans took to social media with their views in a recent Reddit post. Some didn’t exactly agree with Elba: “15 years ago? I think people absolutely would have been down for Idris. I would have.” And of course, plenty of the actor’s followers want nothing more than to see him in the role, with one gushing, “I think he would make a tremendous Bond. Honestly, he’s the most obvious choice.”