Few roles in cinema carry the same weight as James Bond, and replacing the actor behind the tuxedo has always been a delicate process.
While many names have been thrown around over the past year alone, the discussion has resurfaced thanks to Lennie James, who offered a surprisingly direct opinion while speaking to Radio Times Gaming at the BAFTA Games Awards (via GamesRadar).
The Walking Dead actor, who appears in the upcoming third-person video game 007 First Light, made it clear he believes the franchise may already have its next Bond in plain sight.
“He’s fantastic in our version of Bond,” James said, referring to Patrick Gibson, best known for Dexter: Original Sin, who plays the younger version of the spy in the game.
“I genuinely think he should be a candidate for the main role that they’re trying to find someone for.” He added, “The people in control would be mad not to consider him.”
The timing of those comments is notable. First Light is positioned as an origin story, exploring Bond before he becomes the polished agent audiences are familiar with.
That younger interpretation aligns closely with some reports suggesting the next film will also cast a relatively early-career actor to carry the franchise forward.
With that said, Gibson may be limited to just the one outing, similar to George Lazenby, who appeared in On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1969), never to return again.
Related: Hollywood Eyes Popular Actress to Play Female James Bond
For now, the film side of the property remains in a state of uncertainty. Despite ongoing rumors and shortlists, there has been no official announcement regarding Bond’s next incarnation, and the project is still some distance from production.
James’ endorsement may not change that overnight, but it does highlight how closely different parts of the franchise are beginning to align. With 007 First Light introducing a new take on the character and the films preparing for a reset of their own, the idea of a younger Bond is no longer just speculation — it’s already taking shape.
007 First Light will be released on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows on May 27, 2026. Its Nintendo Switch 2 release has been pushed back to an unspecified date later this year.
There’s no release date for the untitled film reboot.
Will you be playing 007 First Light? Do you think Patrick Gibson should play Bond in the next film? Let us know in the comments below!
