Karl Urban to be the next James Bond?

By Jim Leap
Wellington
Last updated on July 29, 2025

So, why not a 53-year-old James Bond from New Zealand?

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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 June 2025. One of the names who keeps cropping up is Karl Urban.

UPDATE 29/07/2025 : 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 53-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 Monday 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) July 28, 2025

“He was perfect as Gavin Magary in Pete's Dragon, he will be tremendous portraying James Bond.”
— The Clear Observer (@clearobserver) July 28, 2025

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