Idris Elba opened up about years of rumors linking him to James Bond and said he was never actually in the running for the role.
Speaking at the Los Angeles premiere of Masters of the Universe, the 53-year-old star explained that people kept talking about him as the next 007, but in reality there was never any real casting process involving him.
Elba shared that he was not part of any serious shortlist for the iconic spy role.
Rumors have followed him for more than a decade, especially after reports in 2014 suggested that his name previously came up in early studio discussions.
This led fans to believe that he was close to becoming Bond.
The Hijack actor also spoke about how the conversation sometimes became uncomfortable, saying the idea of a black James Bond brought negative reactions online, which he found difficult at times.
He added that the Bond franchise now appears to be looking for a younger actor as planning moves forward for the next chapter.
However, reports suggest that casting is already underway with a new creative team in place.
Names such as Callum Turner, Jacob Elordi and Aaron Taylor Johnson are now being mentioned as possible choices for the role.
While speculation continues online, Idris is currently focused on promoting his new film Masters of the Universe, in which he plays an important supporting role.
