Manu Bennett to be the next James Bond?

  • By Jim Leap
  • Wellington
  • Last updated on

So, why not a 57-year-old James Bond from New Zealand?
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Is Bennett set to be the next James Bond? Rumors that the producers are looking for someone slightly different to play James Bond emerged in September 2026. One of the names who keeps cropping up is Manu Bennett.

UPDATE 25/10/2026 : 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 Manu Bennett become the Seventh James Bond?

Bennett’s star has been rising in recent years thank to critically acclaimed roles in Arrow (2013-2020), The Hobbit (2012-2014) and The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013). His commercial appeal is growing, too.

The question for Bennett now is – what next?

Three reasons Manu Bennett would be good for the James Bond franchise

  1. It would clarify that Bond is a rotating identity: If M can be a woman, why can't James Bond be a 57-year-old ?
  2. No other performers could be nearly as cool and broodingly suave as Bennett.
  3. It would give Manu Bennett a chance to play a lover, as well as a fighter.

This 'Bennett 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 Manu Bennett for James Bond.

“His name is Bennett. Manu Bennett!”
— Alan Sepintree (@sepintree) October 24, 2026
“He was perfect as Azog in The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, he will be tremendous portraying James Bond.”
— The Clear Observer (@clearobserver) October 24, 2026
“A James Bond!?! Is it some kind of a joke?”
— Boris Kleinman (@UKBoris) October 24, 2026
“Now, this might be a bit of a controversial pick for the role. But think about it: Bennett has always been a skilled actor. He's also known for his wit.”
— Claire Stone (@averageclaire) October 24, 2026

Rumors about Manu Bennett 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 Manu Bennett should be the next James Bond?

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