(Image Source: GQ, MGM Studios)
For years, Idris Elba has been a fan-favorite to take on the iconic role of James Bond, standing out as one of the few non-white actors widely accepted by audiences for the part. However, Elba has repeatedly turned down the suggestions over the years, citing his age as a factor and expressing his belief that Bond is culturally a white male character and should not be portrayed by other races or genders. In a recent interview with "GQ" magazine, he further urged the team behind the next Bond film not to "woke-ify" the character.
(Image Source: GQ)
Elba stated in the interview that he has always felt James Bond is not a very realistic character, and there's a reason he was created the way he was. He acknowledged that he did receive praise due to fans' casting suggestions. However, he believes that realistically, some markets simply won't buy into it. Bond is globally popular, but not all audiences would accept a Black man, an African-American man, playing Bond, as it wouldn't align with their cultural preferences—it's that simple. He added that the Bond character itself is very unrealistic, so adding some realistic elements is good, but producers shouldn't try to make it "too woke." He thinks the character's essence should be honored: escapism. He advised not to try to cater to popular tastes, but rather to just make Bond as he originally was.
via： GQ