John C. Reilly to be the next James Bond?

By Jim Leap
Washington
Last updated on June 20, 2025

So, why not a 60-year-old James Bond from United States?

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

UPDATE 20/06/2025 : 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 Los Angeles wondering what they could bring to the role.

Could John C. Reilly become the Seventh James Bond?

Reilly’s star has been rising in Hollywood in recent years thank to critically acclaimed roles in Kong: Skull Island (2017), Guardians of the Galaxy (2014) and The Dictator (2012). His commercial appeal is growing, too.

The question for Reilly now is – what next?

Three reasons John C. Reilly 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 60-year-old American?
No other performers could be nearly as cool and broodingly suave as Reilly.
It would give John C. Reilly a chance to play a lover, as well as a fighter.

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

Twitter was flooded again Thursday with loads of tweets related to the rumor. Some fans even launched an online Facebook page called We Want John C. Reilly for James Bond.

“His name is Reilly. John C. Reilly!”
— Alan Sepintree (@sepintree) June 19, 2025

“He was perfect as Reed Rothchild in Boogie Nights, he will be tremendous portraying James Bond.”
— The Clear Observer (@clearobserver) June 19, 2025

“An American James Bond!?! Is it some kind of a joke?”
— Boris Kleinman (@UKBoris) June 19, 2025

“Now, this might be a bit of a controversial pick for the role. But think about it: Reilly has always been a skilled actor. He's also known for his wit.”
— Claire Stone (@averageclaire) June 19, 2025

Rumors about John C. Reilly 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 John C. Reilly should be the next James Bond?