Roger Moore backed BBC star to replace Daniel Craig as Next James Bond | Films | Entertainment

Today, May 23, 2023, marks the sixth anniversary of Sir Roger Moore’s death.

The iconic British actor was best known for playing James Bond across seven movies from 1973 to 1985.

But even long after he had hung up his tuxedo for the last time, Moore was eager to discuss the 007 role and who ought to be involved in the franchise going forward.

And back in 2016, he opened up on who he would want to take over from Daniel Craig after his tenure finally came to an end.

While there have always been some major British actors in Hollywood who have always been touted as possibly Bond favourites – such as Henry Cavill, Tom Hardy, Regé-Jean Page, etc – Moore instead opted for a more reserved actor from the BBC.

READ MORE: Sean Connery said his James Bond successor was ‘too old’

Moore told the Daily Star on Sunday: “I think Aidan [Turner] would make a very good Bond.”

Aidan Turner is of course best known for playing Ross Poldark in the BBC period drama, Poldark. The Irish star also made a name for himself taking on the role of Kili in the Lord of the Rings spin-off trilogy, The Hobbit.

Moore continued: “I like Aidan. I think he’s doing a wonderful job as Ross [Poldark]. He looks great and has a brooding presence. He’s registered enormously with the public, and that’s terrific.”

Moore even went on to compare Turner to the first and most recognisable James Bond of all time: Sean Connery.

“I think he’d be an excellent Bond. Aidan is a good actor, and the first 007, Sean Connery, was a very good actor. Aidan is quite capable of doing that part,” he continued.

“Good luck to him if he gets it,” Moore said. “I’ll be very pleased for him.”

Even years after Moore backed Turner, he is still in the running to become the Next James Bond.

Ladbrokes’ latest Bond odds give Turner 20/1 on becoming the next star to don the tuxedo and grab his martinis shaken, not stirred.

He still has a long way to go, though, given that the favourite, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, has an enormous 15/8.