Bridgerton director Julie Ann Robinson wants star Regé Jean-Page to be the next James Bond. Jean-Page stars in Bridgerton as Simon, Duke of Hastings, opposite Phoebe Dynevor as Daphne Bridgerton. The first season of the Netflix series debuted over the Christmas holiday and became one of the most-watched Netflix originals of all time. The Regency era Shondaland drama is Gossip Girl meets Pride & Prejudice and after its quick rise in Netflix's Top 10, many saw Jean-Page as a contender for the next James Bond.
Daniel Craig's fifth outing as Bond, No Time to Die, will be his last and, with that comes speculation as to who will take over the role. Jean-Page's odds as the next Bond skyrocketed after Bridgerton's premiere and while he has brushed off the rumors swirling, fans have rallied for him to be cast as the next Bond. While James Bond experts may disagree, Jean-Page has another person in his corner now.
In an interview with Deadline, Robinson expressed excitement at the prospect of Jean-Page being the next James Bond. Robinson said she never saw Jean-Page as a sex symbol, but the show quickly turned him into one anyway. Robinson goes on to explain that she always saw Jean-Page as a serious actor, one that is more than capable of taking on the role of James Bond. Robinson emphatically expressed hope that Jean-Page lands the role.
It’s interesting about Regé, I hope he is not offended by this but I never saw him as a sex symbol. I always saw him as a serious actor, very committed, a caring professional. And now look at him, I mean goodness me. It’s incredible, I hope he is the next James Bond.
Robinson isn't alone - fans of the actor have called for Jean-Page to be considered for James Bond amidst heightened speculation that the role will be filled soon. While No Time to Die is still slated for an April release, it is expected to be delayed again, which would mark the third time the film has been delayed. While the studio behind the Bond films has not commented on who will take over the role, discussions are likely being had behind the scenes about who will be taking over the role and it seems that Bridgerton could have premiered at the perfect time.
Calls for the diversification of Bond have been amplified in recent years, with many wanting to see the James Bond role taken on by an actor of color or a woman. Jean-Page could do double duty by taking over the role. Not only would it finally put a black actor at the forefront of the franchise, but it could take the films in a new direction. Jean-Page would be one of the youngest actors to take on the role of James Bond and that could see the story go in any number of directions that Craig's more seasoned Bond was unable to go. Still, Jean-Page may be too busy with Bridgerton season 2 to take on the role. The show is expected to be renewed shortly, making his schedule quite tight. Hopefully, if chosen, he could make it work as the next James Bond.
Source: Deadline
