RockyS bold Ambition: A New Era for 007?

rakim Mayers,known globally as A$AP Rocky,has publicly expressed his desire to become the next James Bond,envisioning himself as the first Black actor to portray the iconic secret agent in the official film series. The 36-year-old rapper and actor cited his burgeoning experience in action films, notably his role in the upcoming thriller Highest 2 Lowest, as a key motivator.

With Daniel Craig‘s departure from the role in 2021’s No Time to Die, the search for a new 007 is underway. Rocky’s proposition injects a fresh perspective into the ongoing casting discussions.

“Dad Mode” and Physical Readiness: Rocky’s Preparation Plan

Acknowledging his current priorities as a father of two, soon to be three, children with singer Rihanna, A$AP Rocky humorously requested a “couple of months” to dedicate to the physical demands of the role.He emphasized his commitment to fully embodying the character, drawing parallels to his dedication to music and design projects.

“I think I must be the new James Bond Black. Why not? If I go to the gym, I’ll be ready,”

A$AP Rocky, Variety Interview

From Music to Espionage: Rocky’s acting Trajectory

Rocky’s acting career began with a debut in the 2015 film Dope, followed by appearances in Zoolander 2 (2016) and Monster (2018), and also roles in television series like Empire and Ray Donovan. His role as Yung Felon in Highest 2 Lowest, directed by Spike Lee, is anticipated to be a important step forward. Lee himself has praised Rocky’s performance, describing him as “fire.”

Notably, this isn’t the first time Rocky has voiced his bond aspirations. In a 2015 interview with Esquire UK, he stated his belief that he would make a 007 who “would look better than any other Bond.”

The future of Bond: Casting Speculation and the Call for Diversity

Since Amazon MGM Studios assumed creative control of the James Bond franchise in March 2025, speculation surrounding the next 007 has intensified. While no official casting announcements have been made, names like Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Henry Cavill have been circulating. The possibility of a Black James Bond has been a recurring topic, with Idris Elba previously considered a frontrunner before withdrawing from consideration in 2023.

Casting A$AP Rocky would mark a significant milestone in the franchise’s history, perhaps making him the first Black actor to officially portray James Bond as the film series began in 1962.This move would align with growing calls for greater diversity and representation in Hollywood.

The Legacy of 007: A Look Back at Past James Bond Actors

The role of James Bond has been portrayed by several actors over the decades, each bringing their unique interpretation to the character. Here’s a list of the actors who have played James Bond in the official Eon Productions films:

• Sean Connery (1962-1967, 1971): Dr. No, From Russia with Love, Goldfinger, Thunderball, You Only Live Twice, Diamonds Are Forever
• George Lazenby (1969): On Her Majesty’s Secret Service
• Roger moore (1973-1985): Live and Let Die, The Man with the Golden Gun, The Spy Who Loved Me, Moonraker, For Your Eyes Only, Octopussy, A View to a kill
• Timothy Dalton (1987-1989): The Living Daylights, Licence to Kill
• Pierce Brosnan (1995-2002): GoldenEye, Tomorrow Never Dies, The World Is Not Enough, Die Another Day
• Daniel Craig (2006-2021): Casino Royale, Quantum of Solace, Skyfall, Spectre, No Time to Die

additionally, James Bond has been portrayed in unofficial productions by:

• Barry Nelson (1954): Casino Royale (television adaptation)
• David Niven (1967): Casino Royale (parody)