James Norton denies rumours he’s set to be the next James Bond and tells fans not to bet on him for the role
JAMES Norton has ruled himself of playing the next James Bond after warning fans not to bet on him replacing Daniel Craig.
Despite being the favourite to take on the coveted role, James has described the very thought as "flattering" but "mad".
James, who stars in the new TV series McMafia, has advised those who fancy a flutter on him to instead keep hold of their money.
Despite being seen in a tuxedo in the opening scene of the BBC drama, which has added fuel to the 007 fire, the actor told the : "I did say to James Watkins, the director, are you just baiting me and stoking the rumour fire with scenes like that?
"When it’s reported in the press, people assume that I’ve coordinated the scene, but I promise you I didn’t. The truth is that it’s total speculation.
"It’s really humbling and flattering, but to have my name [tipped for Bond] next to the likes of Tom Hardy and Michael Fassbender is just mad."
He added: "If you’re thinking of putting a bet on me, keep your money in your pocket."
While Daniel Craig is set to appear in the next James Bond movie, which is due for release in November 2019, he has confirmed it will be his last.
In an interview with America's The Late Late Show, the 49-year-old actor said: "I think this is it.
"I just want to go out on a high note and I can't wait."
James, 32, is currently the bookies' favourite to take on the role, having already impressed Hollywood with his portrayal of Prince Andrei in War & Peace.
But plenty of other names have also been thrown into the mix.
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Along with Tom Hardy and Michael Fassbender, Tom Hiddlestone, Idris Elba, Aidan Turner and Jack Huston have also been tipped to become the next 007.
James Bond producer Barbara Broccoli, meanwhile, has revealed she has not ruled out replacing David with a female actress.
She said: "These films tend to reflect the times so we always try to push the envelope a little bit. Anything is possible."
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