June 22nd 2024.
The world of cinema has been abuzz with speculation ever since Daniel Craig announced his departure from the iconic role of James Bond. Fans and critics alike have been eagerly waiting to find out who will take over the reins as the dashing superspy.
Numerous names have been thrown into the mix, including Idris Elba, Tom Hardy, Henry Cavill, and James Norton. The anticipation has only grown with rumors that a British actor has already been offered the role. However, recent reports claiming that Aaron Taylor-Johnson had been cast turned out to be false, with new rumors now suggesting that Taron Egerton is the frontrunner.
But while everyone is eagerly waiting for the big reveal, casting director Debbie McWilliams has shed some light on what producer Barbara Broccoli is looking for in the next James Bond. In an interview with The Agency, Debbie, who has been in charge of casting every Bond film since 1995, revealed the qualities that are essential for the next action lead.
"They have to be extremely charismatic, fit, and prepared for their lives to change," she said. "It's not everyone who wants that kind of stardom. In fact, Daniel has always shied away from the limelight and I think he's done it very cleverly. He hasn't sought fame, he's just been content with doing the job. You need to have a certain modesty and know whose shoes you're stepping into."
Interestingly, it was Barbara who had Daniel in mind to replace Pierce Brosnan, who last portrayed Bond in the 2002 movie "Die Another Day." The talented actor then went on to star in "Casino Royale," "Quantum of Solace," "Skyfall," and "Spectre."
However, Daniel announced that the upcoming film, "No Time To Die," set to release in 2021, will be his final appearance as 007. This sparked the hunt for the next Bond, and Debbie revealed that the casting process for such a huge production is kept completely under wraps.
"We're all very discreet and we don't give anything away," she explained. "The audition process is quite different from any other film I work on. We never use the actual script being filmed. We always use an old script and choose scenes that are similar to the film or will give us an idea of how the person will perform on screen. It's just to get an impression of their voice, looks, and performance."
Debbie also shared that the auditions are kept confidential, with only a select few individuals being privy to the process. "Particularly on this last one, I don't think many people on the production team saw the actual script. It's kept close to our hearts," she added.
For those aspiring to be cast in the next Bond film, Debbie suggests making a trip to Paris. "I start by reading the script several times to understand what's required. Then I delve into the dark corners of my mind to see who inspires me and who I think would be right for the role. If I don't have any immediate solutions, then I start looking for people," she said.
"I've been given the freedom to travel anywhere for casting. So if we're filming in Germany, I'll go to Germany. If I feel it's necessary to go to Paris to meet potential leading ladies, then I'll go. In fact, Paris has been one of our most successful casting locations. I'm always open to suggestions and I make myself available. We do meet a lot of people, but it eventually boils down to two or three contenders for each role."
So, for those hoping to see themselves on the big screen alongside the next James Bond - keep an eye out for casting calls in Paris! If you have a celebrity story, video, or pictures, don't hesitate to reach out to The Agency entertainment team via email, phone, or by visiting their Submit Stuff page - they would love to hear from you.
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