Idris Elba walks out of James Bond race?

Idris Elba

Hollywood star Idris Elba is reported to have walked away from talks to be the next James Bond after being named favourite to replace Daniel Craig. Elba is instead reportedly set to pursue "his own film franchise," and has apparently suggested other suitable 007s to producer Barbara Broccoli.

Also Read: Idris Elba back in the running to play the next 007?

A source told The Sun, "Fans and Barbara wanted Idris but he wants to create something for himself. However, he's put forward names to play 007. He's ‘informally' in the decision-making process as he's been in talks with producers for so long."

Craig, 54, quit after his fifth Bond outing in last year's No Time to Die, with Broccoli later saying Elba was in her plans to take over as the spy, hailing him "a magnificent actor". With Elba out of the running, Henry Cavill and Rege-Jean Page are reportedly in contention. They are still front-runners despite a film insider earlier this month saying the new Bond must be aged under 40 and taller than 5ft 10 inches.

Also Read: Idris Elba starts shooting for Luther

This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever