Aaron Taylor-Johnson could very well be the next James Bond, and his movies thus far in the 2020s demonstrate why he’s the right choice. Daniel Craig’s tenure concluded with No Time to Die, and in the franchise's grand tradition, it’s time to find his replacement. The film did leave an intriguing option to try something new as Lashana Lynch’s Nomi succeeded Bond as 007. However, it seems that Bond 26 will stick to their classic formula with a male actor. Many popular names have been tossed out in consideration other than Taylor-Johnson, such as Idris Elba and Regé-Jean Page.
Taylor-Johnson is no stranger to franchise entertainment, having appeared as Quicksilver in the MCU’s Avengers: Age of Ultron and as the titular hero in the Kick-Ass film series. However, James Bond is a whole other ordeal compared to costumed superheroes and requires a far more nuanced approach. Nevertheless, Taylor-Johnson is the frontrunner for the next James Bond and could take the helm of a new series of films for a decade or beyond, just as Daniel Craig did. In fact, Taylor-Johnson has already proved his worthiness and capabilities thus far this decade, and he could continue to do so until the final decision is made.
Tenet & Bullet Train Prove Aaron Taylor-Johnson Has What It Takes For Bond
Aaron Taylor-Johnson has had an exciting swath of films so far in the 2020s. He started the decade out with Christopher Nolan’s Tenet as Ives. While the film prominently adopted science fiction elements, Tenet was quite comparable to Bond film. Taylor-Johnson wasn’t the star of the film, but he definitely shone and showcased his wide range and versatility. However, his standout showing came most recently in one of 2022’s best action movies, Bullet Train. Opposite Brian Tyree Henry, Taylor-Johnson stole the show as Tangerine. Through Bullet Train's reliance on action sequences and fight scenes, Taylor-Johnson proved he's a certifiable action star and a strong fit for Bond.
What Taylor-Johnson really has going for him in this tough competition is his charisma. Bond is a suave and confident character. Craig’s depiction was more tough and gritty, though with a compelling vulnerability, compared to his predecessors. Taylor-Johnson would differ as well, as he often exudes an edgy charm and thus could imbue his Bond with a lighter yet wilder tone, all while keeping up with Craig when it comes to action. Both Tenet and Bullet Train were strong showings in their own regard. Plus, his casting as Bond could also make good on a tease in The King’s Man, finally letting him be the spy he deserves to be.
Kraven Can Prove Aaron Taylor-Johnson Can Handle A Franchise
Even without Bond, Taylor-Johnson already has a bright future ahead of him with his upcoming credits. He’s set to star in the titular role in Sony’s Kraven the Hunter, which is currently scheduled for release on October 6th, and next in David Leitch’s action film, The Fall Guy, in 2024 with Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt. The former is an intriguing prospect. Kraven the Hunter is part of Sony’s Spider-Man Universe with Venom and Morbius. While that franchise has been saddled with some extremely shaky foundations, Kraven the Hunter could be an exception, given Taylor-Johnson’s impressive track record. It will certainly showcase that he can headline a franchise on his own.
Presumably, Sony has plans for Taylor-Johnson’s Kraven beyond this film. Likely, they would want to keep him around for the Sinister Six film they’ve been talking about making since the days of The Amazing Spider-Man. Such a long-term commitment could prove a complication for something like Bond. However, should Kraven the Hunter be yet another strong showing for Taylor-Johnson, as early reactions to test screenings already suggest, his credentials to play Bond would only be augmented. There’s a reason Aaron Taylor-Johnson is the supposed front-runner to become James Bond; he’s got the talents and appeal to do the job right.