Sean Penn to be the next James Bond?

By Jim Leap
Washington
Last updated on May 18, 2025

So, why not a 64-year-old James Bond from United States?

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Is Penn 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 Sean Penn.

UPDATE 18/05/2025 : 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 Los Angeles wondering what they could bring to the role.

Could Sean Penn become the Seventh James Bond?

Penn’s star has been rising in Hollywood in recent years thank to critically acclaimed roles in The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013), Gangster Squad (2013) and Milk (2008). His commercial appeal is growing, too.

The question for Penn now is – what next?

Three reasons Sean Penn 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 64-year-old American?
No other performers could be nearly as cool and broodingly suave as Penn.
It would give Sean Penn a chance to play a lover, as well as a fighter.

This 'Penn 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 Sean Penn for James Bond.

“His name is Penn. Sean Penn!”
— Alan Sepintree (@sepintree) May 17, 2025

“He was perfect as David Kleinfeld in Carlito's Way, he will be tremendous portraying James Bond.”
— The Clear Observer (@clearobserver) May 17, 2025

“An American James Bond!?! Is it some kind of a joke?”
— Boris Kleinman (@UKBoris) May 17, 2025

“Now, this might be a bit of a controversial pick for the role. But think about it: Penn has always been a skilled actor. He's also known for his wit.”
— Claire Stone (@averageclaire) May 17, 2025

Rumors about Sean Penn 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 Sean Penn should be the next James Bond?