Robbie Williams has humorously announced that he will not be taking on the iconic role of James Bond, amid ongoing speculation about who will succeed Daniel Craig as the next 007. The singer, known for hits like “Angels,” took to X on October 20, 2025, to clarify his position, stating, “I appreciate the interest but I’m officially removing myself from the running to be the next James Bond. Thank you for your understanding.”
In the past, Williams has playfully alluded to the role. His 1998 music video for “Millennium” featured a homage to the suave spy, incorporating elements from the Bond franchise, particularly the theme from Nancy Sinatra‘s “You Only Live Twice.” Despite this playful connection, Williams had previously dismissed the idea of portraying Bond in 2003. At that time, he noted that key figures from the franchise, including casting director Debbie McWilliams and producer Barbara Broccoli, attended one of his performances, but the franchise makers were not interested in casting him.
Reflecting on his past comments, Williams remarked during a press conference in Japan, “The makers of the franchise did not want me to play Bond. I did the Millennium video as a pastiche of James Bond and I left it there.” He also expressed that his interpretation of Bond may not align with current societal standards, saying, “I love James Bond but I preferred him when he was sexist and he can’t be now because everything is so PC.”
New Direction for the Bond Franchise
The next installment of the Bond franchise, directed by Denis Villeneuve, is set to begin production at Pinewood Studios in the UK in April 2024. The screenplay, crafted by Steven Knight, will delve into contemporary themes, notably the threats posed by artificial intelligence (AI). According to a recent report in The Sun on Sunday, this film will mark the first Bond adventure in the AI era, promising a bold and fresh narrative that resonates with today’s audience.
A source for the publication stated, “This next Bond movie has to feel bold, fresh, and relevant—especially after such a long break.” The challenge lies in modernising Bond while preserving the character’s classic charm. The insider emphasized, “Denis isn’t coming in to make a safe Bond film—he’s coming to redefine what Bond can be. Think scale, style, and substance.”
The upcoming film signifies a pivotal moment for the franchise, especially following Amazon MGM‘s acquisition of creative control from long-time producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson. Villeneuve, in response to his appointment, pledged to maintain the essence of the beloved spy, stating, “To me, he’s sacred territory. I intend to honour the tradition and open the path for many new missions to come.”
Amazon MGM Studios chief Mike Hopkins expressed confidence in Villeneuve’s vision, stating, “Denis has delivered compelling worlds, dynamic visuals, complex characters, and—most importantly—the immersive storytelling that global audiences yearn to experience in theatres.”
Potential Candidates for the Role
As the search for the next Bond continues, several actors are already being considered to take on the role. Among those mentioned are Aaron Taylor-Johnson, James Norton, Harris Dickinson, Tom Holland, Callum Turner, and Jacob Elordi. This anticipation builds as fans eagerly await the first Bond film since No Time To Die, released in 2021.
The excitement for the franchise’s future is palpable, with industry insiders suggesting that the new installation will not only bring a fresh perspective but also respect the legacy that has made James Bond a cultural icon for over half a century. As casting announcements draw near, the world watches closely, eager to see how the next chapter of 007 will unfold.
