Donnie Yen to be the next James Bond?

By Jim Leap
Hong Kong
Last updated on April 12, 2025

So, why not a 61-year-old James Bond from Hong Kong?

Hot news

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Is Yen set to be the next James Bond? Rumors that the producers are looking for someone slightly different to play James Bond emerged in March 2025. One of the names who keeps cropping up is Donnie Yen.

UPDATE 12/04/2025 : This story seems to be false. (read more)

Every man, at some point in his life, wishes he could be James Bond. And with the news that Daniel Craig may well be out as 007, there are a whole bunch of actors from London to Hong Kong wondering what they could bring to the role.

Could Donnie Yen become the Seventh James Bond?

Yen’s star has been rising in recent years thank to critically acclaimed roles in Rogue One (2016) and Special ID (2013). His commercial appeal is growing, too.

The question for Yen now is – what next?

Three reasons Donnie Yen would be good for the James Bond franchise

It would clarify that Bond is a rotating identity: If M can be a woman, why can't James Bond be a 61-year-old ?
No other performers could be nearly as cool and broodingly suave as Yen.
It would give Donnie Yen a chance to play a lover, as well as a fighter.

This 'Yen To Play James Bond' Rumor had the internet in a frenzy

Twitter was flooded again Friday with loads of tweets related to the rumor. Some fans even launched an online Facebook page called We Want Donnie Yen for James Bond.

“His name is Yen. Donnie Yen!”
— Alan Sepintree (@sepintree) April 11, 2025

“He was perfect as Dragon Chan in Special ID, he will be tremendous portraying James Bond.”
— The Clear Observer (@clearobserver) April 11, 2025

“A James Bond!?! Is it some kind of a joke?”
— Boris Kleinman (@UKBoris) April 11, 2025

“Now, this might be a bit of a controversial pick for the role. But think about it: Yen has always been a skilled actor. He's also known for his wit.”
— Claire Stone (@averageclaire) April 11, 2025

Rumors about Donnie Yen stepping into the role's next iteration have been floating about for a while now. He is characterized by being smooth, slick, handsome, rugged and charming. These are definitely the characteristics needed to play James Bond. Don’t you agree?

Do you think Donnie Yen should be the next James Bond?