James Bond Will Reportedly Remain a Man and Still Be British or From the Commonwealth, Pierce Brosnan Insists 007 Must Not Be American, and Longlegs Director Says 'F**k Jeff Bezos'

The James Bond rumor mill is churning following Amazon's acquisition of full creative control over 007, leaving the identity of the next 007 shrouded in mystery. However, a recent report clarifies that James Bond will remain a British or Commonwealth male, eliminating contenders like Ryan Gosling.

The Mail on Sunday cited an internal Amazon memo confirming the character's gender and nationality will not change. This news pleases actors like Pierce Brosnan, who famously portrayed Bond, stating to The Telegraph that a British Bond is a given.

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The Commonwealth clause opens the door for actors like Chris Hemsworth, who previously expressed interest. In a 2019 interview with Balance magazine, Hemsworth, referencing his role in Rush, stated his desire to play Bond, acknowledging the significant factors beyond his control in securing the role. His past comments have resurfaced following the Mail on Sunday's report and speculation by the Today Show Australia, which declared Hemsworth's casting a "surety."

Uncertainty surrounds the future of the franchise following Amazon's acquisition and the reduced involvement of long-term producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson. While a Bond TV series is speculated, Variety reports a new film remains the top priority. Amazon will reportedly focus on securing a new producer, with David Heyman, known for his work on the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts franchises, as a potential candidate.

Christopher Nolan's reported interest in directing a Bond film post-Tenet was reportedly rejected by Broccoli, who wouldn't relinquish "final cut." Nolan subsequently directed Oppenheimer, a global box office success.

Amazon's acquisition hasn't been universally welcomed. One director, in a Reddit AMA, expressed strong disapproval of Bezos' involvement.

Fan speculation continues, with names like Tom Hardy, Idris Elba, James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Aaron Taylor-Johnson (previously rumored as a frontrunner), and the fan-favorite Henry Cavill frequently mentioned.

According to Variety, Amazon's hiring is on hold pending the completion of its deal with Broccoli and Wilson, expected later this year. This follows reports of a tense standoff between the Broccoli family and Amazon, leaving the future of the franchise temporarily uncertain, as reported by the Wall Street Journal. Amazon and Eon have yet to comment.