As speculation swirls around the next 007, actor Henry Golding says the pressure of playing James Bond might be too overwhelming despite his admiration for the franchise.
For actor Henry Golding, the idea of stepping into the iconic shoes of James Bond is more intimidating than aspirational. Speaking at the Los Angeles premiere of The Old Guard 2, Golding shared that the intense cultural expectations surrounding the role make it “every actor’s kind of nightmare,” even as buzz intensifies following Denis Villeneuve’s appointment as the next James Bond director under Amazon MGM Studios.
While some actors might dream of donning the tuxedo and carrying the license to kill, Henry Golding admits he’s hesitant about taking on the legendary spy role of James Bond.
“I think that’s every actor’s kind of nightmare,” the Crazy Rich Asians star told People during the red carpet for The Old Guard 2 this week. His candid remarks came in response to the news that acclaimed filmmaker Denis Villeneuve has officially been announced as the next director of the Bond franchise — marking a new era for the series under Amazon MGM Studios.
Golding elaborated, “But at the same time, [you’re] also wanting to kind of add something new to a franchise. Why can’t they bring out more agents or more OO’s? I think that would be so much more fun, because there just isn’t the restraints and the expectation.”
The actor further expressed that the daunting level of global scrutiny surrounding the role is a major concern. “Maybe I’m just a pussy. I don’t know. But I think I would love it so much more if there wasn’t that overhanging cultural pressure,” he added, suggesting a fresh direction for the Bond universe might be more creatively liberating.
Golding’s comments come amid growing speculation over who will replace Daniel Craig as the next Bond. While no actor has yet been confirmed, Villeneuve’s involvement has reenergized fan interest in the franchise’s future.
According to Amazon MGM Studios, Villeneuve will direct the new chapter in the Bond saga, with Tanya Lapointe — his artistic partner and wife — on board as executive producer alongside longtime Bond collaborators Amy Pascal and David Heyman.
“Some of my earliest movie-going memories are connected to 007,” Villeneuve shared in a statement on Wednesday. “I grew up watching James Bond films with my father, ever since Dr. No with Sean Connery. I’m a die-hard Bond fan. To me, he’s sacred territory. I intend to honor the tradition and open the path for many new missions to come.”
Villeneuve, best known for Dune, Blade Runner 2049, and Arrival, brings with him a reputation for high-stakes storytelling and visually immersive cinema — a combination that could rejuvenate the Bond series for a new generation.
As anticipation builds for casting announcements and production details, Golding’s reservations about the role shine a light on the immense pressure and prestige attached to becoming the next 007 — a role that transcends acting and enters the realm of pop culture immortality.
As the Bond franchise prepares for its next evolution under Denis Villeneuve’s direction, Henry Golding’s honest take reminds audiences that stepping into the tux isn’t just about charm and action — it’s about shouldering a cinematic legacy. Whether or not Golding throws his hat in the ring, one thing is clear: James Bond remains one of the most coveted — and complex — roles in Hollywood.