Top 10 Actors Who Should Play James Bond

Who better than the king-slayer to reintroduce us to the next James Bond? While most are familiar with Nikolaj Coster-Waldau from HBO’s “Game of Thrones,” closer analysis would reveal his aptitude to play more cunning and brooding roles in various thrillers. Besides the actor’s natural suave appearance, he can be a beacon for dry wit, as frequently seen in his Jaime Lannister role. He would also be the first Danish James Bond, but we already know he can nail a British accent, so bring on the tux.

#9: Tom Hiddleston

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During a discussion about charming British actors, Tom Hiddleston’s name is more than likely to pop up. His iconic role as Thor’s mischievous brother Loki in numerous Marvel adaptations has helped the actor gain critical success. However, Hiddleston has proven he’s capable of more than just the villain role. He’s also one of the younger candidates in Hollywood’s list of male actors who we’d feel would be suitable for Bond, and his age would allow him to reprise the role for many years to come.

#8: Damian Lewis

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This UK native may not fit the conventional parameters of the signature 007 character, yet his classic appearance makes it so easy to see him in Bond’s fancy tuxedos and expensive cars. Fans of Damian Lewis’ performance as U.S. Sergeant Nicholas Brody in “Homeland” will recognize the actor’s wide range, making his portrayal as a British secret agent seem like not such a far jump. And plus, who’s to say Bond wouldn’t look good in red?

#7: Andrew Lincoln

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Judging from this actor’s breakout role in the popular series “The Walking Dead,” he’s most definitely due for a large feature film role. Not only does Andrew Lincoln clean up well, but his various roles on television and in the movies have exhibited some of James Bond’s most favorable characteristics as well. We’ve seen him play the lover in romantic comedies, a leader of a group of survivors, and a bit of a douche in the British series “Teachers.” Lincoln’s portrayal of Bond may be the most versatile we’ve yet to see.

#6: Tom Hardy

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This actor is possibly one of the most sought-after talents in Hollywood these days, and for good reason. Tom Hardy has flawlessly demonstrated the fact that when it comes to acting, he has no limits. His past roles have not only proved he has mastered the art of action-packed thrillers, but his name alone is big enough to carry a whole franchise. This may be the actor’s only drawback, as producers may preferably want to fill theater seats off of Bond’s name and not Hardy’s.

#5: Matthew Goode

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Anyone miss the tall, dark, and handsome James Bond? While it’s apparent that the franchise has opted to experiment with new directions for the iconic character, Matthew Goode would be a good fit for the role because he emits such a classic sense of the timeless Bond that we’ve come to know and love. Also, he’s not yet been given the chance to prove himself as the lead in any major films, so a part like this could be a possible breakthrough performance.

#4: Michael Fassbender

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We’ve seen charming and cool Bond, but how about a borderline villainous Bond? Michael Fassbender has embodied all three qualities, most notably in his portrayal of Magneto in the “X-Men” franchise. The actor’s ability to become a likeable “bad” guy (or at least an anti-hero) can open plenty more dimensions to the 007 character, all while keeping fairly consistent with the Bond characteristics. Besides, we’ve all seen him play a more than convincing British spy in “Inglourious Basterds.”

#3: Richard Armitage

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We’re fascinated with what this actor’s portrayal of Bond could be because we really wouldn’t know what to expect. And this is all part of Richard Armitage’s allure. He’s been placed in so many conflicting roles, it’s hard to confine him to one type of character, which could very well be the key that unlocks all the faces of Bond we’ve yet to see. While Armitage has primarily stuck to television, his movie and many theater performances have far from disappointed.

There are some actors out there that can play Bond, and then there are some actors that can be Bond. We’d put this seasoned actor into the latter camp, as it was revealed that he was sought out for the role before it was awarded to Daniel Craig. The idea of Clive Owen taking on the role of 007 was ignited by his performance in 1998’s “Croupier.” And even if Owen is never cast, we’ll always have a glimpse of what could have been from his parody of James Bond in “The Pink Panther.” Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions: - Hugh Jackman - Jack O’Connell - Colin Farrell - Eric Bana - Benedict Cumberbatch

We’d just like to put our bid in for this actor to helm the role of the most interesting man on Earth. Some unforeseen circumstances involving leaked Sony emails brought this actor’s candidacy for the role of Bond to the public, and aside from some misguided backlash, fans have collectively expressed their excitement. A close look at Idris Elba’s credentials would demonstrate that the actor is quite frankly overqualified for the role. Elba effortlessly exudes a certain presence and poise that not only transcends skin color, but is also quite familiar to Mr. Bond himself. Do you agree with our list? Which actor do you want to see play James Bond? For more awesome Top 10s published daily, be sure to subscribe to WatchMojo.com.