Karl Urban to be the next James Bond?

By Jim Leap
Wellington
Last updated on May 11, 2025

So, why not a 52-year-old James Bond from New Zealand?

Hot news

Money May 10, 2025
Karl Urban is Highest-Paid Actor in the World
Hot May 10, 2025
Karl Urban Named Sexiest Actor Alive
Rumor Central May 2025
Is Karl Urban secretly gay and hiding in the closet?

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

UPDATE 11/05/2025 : 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 Wellington wondering what they could bring to the role.

Could Karl Urban become the Seventh James Bond?

Urban’s star has been rising in recent years thank to critically acclaimed roles in Pete's Dragon (2016), Star Trek Beyond (2016) and Star Trek (2009). His commercial appeal is growing, too.

The question for Urban now is – what next?

Three reasons Karl Urban 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 52-year-old ?
No other performers could be nearly as cool and broodingly suave as Urban.
It would give Karl Urban a chance to play a lover, as well as a fighter.

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

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

“His name is Urban. Karl Urban!”
— Alan Sepintree (@sepintree) May 10, 2025

“He was perfect as Éomer in The Lord of the Rings, he will be tremendous portraying James Bond.”
— The Clear Observer (@clearobserver) May 10, 2025

“A James Bond!?! Is it some kind of a joke?”
— Boris Kleinman (@UKBoris) May 10, 2025

“Now, this might be a bit of a controversial pick for the role. But think about it: Urban has always been a skilled actor. He's also known for his wit.”
— Claire Stone (@averageclaire) May 10, 2025

Rumors about Karl Urban 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 Karl Urban should be the next James Bond?