Sharlto Copley to be the next James Bond?

By Jim Leap
Pretoria
Last updated on March 30, 2025

So, why not a 51-year-old James Bond from South Africa?

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

UPDATE 30/03/2025 : 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 Pretoria wondering what they could bring to the role.

Could Sharlto Copley become the Seventh James Bond?

Copley’s star has been rising in recent years thank to critically acclaimed roles in Maleficent (2014), Elysium (2013) and District 9 (2009). His commercial appeal is growing, too.

The question for Copley now is – what next?

Three reasons Sharlto Copley 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 51-year-old South African?
No other performers could be nearly as cool and broodingly suave as Copley.
It would give Sharlto Copley a chance to play a lover, as well as a fighter.

This 'Copley 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 Sharlto Copley for James Bond.

“His name is Copley. Sharlto Copley!”
— Alan Sepintree (@sepintree) March 29, 2025

“He was perfect as Wikus van de Merwe in District 9, he will be tremendous portraying James Bond.”
— The Clear Observer (@clearobserver) March 29, 2025

“A South African James Bond!?! Is it some kind of a joke?”
— Boris Kleinman (@UKBoris) March 29, 2025

“Now, this might be a bit of a controversial pick for the role. But think about it: Copley has always been a skilled actor. He's also known for his wit.”
— Claire Stone (@averageclaire) March 29, 2025

Rumors about Sharlto Copley 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 Sharlto Copley should be the next James Bond?