Actors Who Almost Played "James Bond"

Clint Eastwood: The Man with No Bond
Imagine a Bond with the steely gaze of “Dirty Harry.” Clint Eastwood was considered for the role in the late 1970s, but the timing wasn't right for the Hollywood legend. Eastwood's unique brand of rugged charm might have taken Bond in an entirely different direction.

Liam Neeson: A Particular Set of Skills for MI6
Long before he became the action hero in ‘Taken,’ Liam Neeson was a serious contender for the role of “James Bond” in the 1990s. However, the Irish actor turned down the offer, citing his reluctance to commit to a multi-picture deal. Neeson's portrayal of Bond could have added a more intense and brooding dimension to the character.

Idris Elba: A Bold Departure for Bond
The prospect of Idris Elba as “James Bond” generated considerable excitement and controversy. While many applauded the idea of a non-traditional casting choice, discussions about breaking with Bond's traditional character sparked debates. Elba's suave demeanor and undeniable charisma could have redefined the iconic role.

Sam Neill: The Bond Who Never Was
Best known for his role in ‘Jurassic Park,’ Sam Neill screen-tested for “James Bond” in the 1980s. Despite his charm and on-screen presence, the role eventually slipped through his fingers. Timothy Dalton secured the part instead, leaving fans to wonder about the Bond that might have been.

Henry Cavill: From Superman to Super Spy?
Henry Cavill, known for his portrayal of “Superman”, was in the running to become the next “James Bond” after Daniel Craig. However, the casting decision swung in a different direction, and Cavill's potential Bond journey remains speculative. Would he have brought a superhuman touch to MI6?

Sean Bean: From 007 To 006
Sean Bean tried for the role in ‘GoldenEye’ but lost the “Bond” role to Pierce Brosnan, however, the producers were so impressed with Bean’s performance that they gave him the antagonist role of 006. In the film, he played the character “Alec Trevelyan,” a former MI6 agent who turns rogue and becomes “Bond”'s adversary.

Burt Reynolds: An American Bond
Burt Reynolds, the charismatic and iconic Hollywood actor, was considered for the role of “James Bond” at one point in the late 1960s. Some reports suggest that Reynolds himself turned down the offer, feeling that an American playing the quintessentially British character might not be well-received. Others indicate that scheduling conflicts and contractual obligations prevented him from taking on the role.

Adam West: Batman Can’t Have Firearms, After All
Adam West, best remembered as the campy and iconic Batman in the 1960s television series ‘Batman,’ was considered for the role of “James Bond” in the late 1960s. West, known for his deadpan delivery and charismatic portrayal of the Caped Crusader, was deemed a potential candidate due to his popularity and recognition from the ‘Batman’ series. However, the casting ultimately took a different turn, and George Lazenby was chosen to play “James Bond” in ‘On Her Majesty's Secret Service’ (1969).

Mel Gibson: A Maverick Bond?
In the 1980s, Mel Gibson was a top choice for “James Bond,” but scheduling conflicts and other considerations led to him being passed over. Gibson's take on “Bond” could have injected a dose of maverick energy, reminiscent of his roles in the ‘Lethal Weapon’ series.

Hugh Jackman: Wolverine to Double-O Seven?
Known for his portrayal of “Wolverine” in the ‘X-Men’ series, Hugh Jackman was another actor who flirted with the idea of becoming “James Bond.” Despite expressing interest, the timing didn't align with his other commitments. Jackman's “Bond” might have brought a charismatic and action-packed flair to the role.