Jonathan Rhys-Meyers denies James Bond #6 rumours

22-Apr-2005 • Casino Royale

A rumor appeared online two years ago that one potential successor to Pierce Brosnan for the role of James Bond was twentysomething Irish actor Jonathan Rhys-Meyers (Bend It Like Beckham, Alexander). Although the report was widely ignored at the time, recent developments suggesting the next Bond will be younger than traditionally portrayed was enough to make IGN ask Rhys-Meyers about it.

During a forthcoming interview to promote his title role in the CBS miniseries Elvis, IGN asked Rhys Meyers if he ever auditioned for the part of 007 or if there was ever any truth to the rumors.

"No, I think it's all bull****," Rhys-Meyers replied in his Elvis drawl. "But you know maybe if they're going for a younger James Bond they might come to me. However, I'm not so sure they will," he added with a laugh.

"But you know if they did, I'm not saying I wouldn't play James Bond. Who would want to give up the chance of being the world's greatest super-spy agent? But, you know, it's not a reality for me at the moment. But get back to me in a little while it might be. I don't know."

"As long as I wear my blue suede shoes, baby. If I can do it with a Tupelo, Mississippi accent, I might. 'Bond. James Bond,'" drawled the man who is King. "Light another cigarette and roll."

It should be noted that Rhys-Meyers played the brother of oft-rumored Bond contender Clive Owen in "I'll Sleep When I'm Dead".

Thanks to `Kyvan` for the alert.