Next month it will have been two years since No Time To Die premiered, concluding Daniel Craig’s record 15 years as James Bond.
Even before his final 007 movie was green-lit fans were speculating over who his replacement would be.
In recent months the likes of Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Henry Cavill have been the frontrunners in the bookies’ odds, which should be taken with a pinch of salt.
However, most recently another star has leapfrogged over them and others to be their new frontrunner.
In fact, this star is responsible for 80 per cent of all bets in the market, according to Star Sports.
Luke Tarr, Head of PR at Star Sports, said: “The search for the next James Bond seems to be a slow and thorough process, but one actor stands out as the name on everyone’s lips in our betting.
“It’s Happy Valley star James Norton who has been by far the most popular selection for our punters, attracting 80% of all bets in the market and subsequently shortening from 10/1 to 5/2.
“Damson Idris is also amongst the favourites for the role, hovering just behind Norton’s odds at 11/4, whilst Aaron Taylor-Johnson (3/1), Henry Cavill (9/2), and Rege-Jean Payne (5/1) are likewise in contention.”
Norton, 38, also caused a stir recently when spotted chatting to Craig in the Royal box at the Wimbledon Gentlemen’s Singles final last month.
Also in the bookies’ race is Paapa Essiedu on 10/1 followed by both Cillian Murphy and Tom Hardy on 12/1.
Given the ongoing joint Hollywood writers and actors’ strike, it could be a while before EON Productions announce their new Bond.
