James Norton Emerges As Betting Favorite To Be The Next James Bond

When No Time to Die hits theaters in April, it will mark the end of an illustrious era.

Daniel Craig, the longest-tenured James Bond actor who's held the role since Oct. 2005, has already confirmed that No Time to Die will be his fifth and final performance as the popular British spy.

Fans and pundits of the iconic 007 movie series are already curious Craig's replacement. There was speculation that a female would replace Craig, but producer Barbara Broccoli has confirmed that the role will continue to be played by a male.

It could be a while until we find out which actor is cast as Craig's replacement. There will have been a gap of over four and a half years between the releases of Spectre (2015) and No Time to Die. If the wait is that long again, we may not learn of the next Bond actor for several years.

While we continue to play the guessing game, Ladbrokes (h/t the Daily Express) has listed James Norton as the betting favorite to play 007. Norton, who is most popular for his roles in shows such as Happy Valley and War & Peace, carries 6/4 odds. Richard Madden has the second-highest odds at 4/1.

Related: Former Bond Girl Doesn't Think A Female Should Replace Daniel Craig As 007

Tom Hiddleston and Sam Heughan are the next closest behind Norton and Madden with 4-1 odds. Heughan and Madden were previously listed as the favorites by Ladbrokes at 5/2 and 5/1, respectively.

It's worth noting, however, that Norton shut down the rumors of being cast as the new James Bond during a recent interview with the Sunday Times. Norton stated "there is no truth behind" such rumors.

Other actors who've been mentioned as possible replacements for Craig include Idris Elba and Tom Hardy. There is no shortage of quality candidates who can suit up for the 007 role, but again, it could be a while until we learn of the next Bond actor. For now, all eyes are on No Time to Die, the milestone 25th film in the series.

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