Gilbert Melki to be the next James Bond?

By Jim Leap
Paris
Last updated on March 1, 2025

So, why not a 66-year-old James Bond from France?

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

UPDATE 01/03/2025 : 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 Paris wondering what they could bring to the role.

Could Gilbert Melki become the Seventh James Bond?

Melki’s star has been rising in recent years thank to critically acclaimed roles in Le Mac (2010), Largo Winch (2008) and Would I Lie to You? 2 (2001). His commercial appeal is growing, too.

The question for Melki now is – what next?

Three reasons Gilbert Melki 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 66-year-old French?
No other performers could be nearly as cool and broodingly suave as Melki.
It would give Gilbert Melki a chance to play a lover, as well as a fighter.

This 'Melki 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 Gilbert Melki for James Bond.

“His name is Melki. Gilbert Melki!”
— Alan Sepintree (@sepintree) February 28, 2025

“He was perfect as Patrick Abitbol in Would I Lie to You?, he will be tremendous portraying James Bond.”
— The Clear Observer (@clearobserver) February 28, 2025

“A French James Bond!?! Is it some kind of a joke?”
— Boris Kleinman (@UKBoris) February 28, 2025

“Now, this might be a bit of a controversial pick for the role. But think about it: Melki has always been a skilled actor. He's also known for his wit.”
— Claire Stone (@averageclaire) February 28, 2025

Rumors about Gilbert Melki 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 Gilbert Melki should be the next James Bond?