Luis Guzmán Reveals Why Tom Hardy Is the Perfect James Bond – And It’s Not What You Expect!

As discussions surrounding the next James Bond heat up, Tom Hardy remains a fan-favorite choice for the iconic role. Known for his intense performances in films like The Dark Knight Rises, The Revenant, and Venom, Hardy’s versatility and commanding screen presence make him a top contender. However, the question remains: Should Hardy take on the mantle of 007? According to his Havoc co-star, Luis Guzmán, the answer is a resounding yes.

In a recent interview with ScreenRant’s Owen Danoff, Guzmán shared his admiration for Hardy, particularly highlighting his ability to tackle a wide range of roles. When asked about Hardy’s potential to become the next Bond, Guzmán responded with high praise. “Tom Hardy can do anything he wants, that’s how good he is,” Guzmán stated, underscoring Hardy’s vast talent and adaptability. He pointed to Bronson—a film in which Hardy portrays the infamous British criminal Charles Bronson—as a prime example of Hardy’s capacity for intense, transformative performances.

“Have you ever seen the movie Bronson? Check that movie out that he did. You want to see something intense? See that,” Guzmán continued. “When you see that movie, and this movie, and [think about] him being the next James Bond, you’ll understand. He’s done so many great roles, but I promise you, you see Bronson, you’re going to say, ‘Oh s***, why haven’t I seen this before?’” Guzmán’s admiration for Hardy extends beyond his on-screen intensity—he also praises Hardy as a “really good person,” adding a personal touch to his endorsement.

What Does This Mean for Hardy’s Chances of Playing Bond?

Guzmán’s endorsement adds another layer to the growing momentum behind Hardy’s potential casting as Bond. The actor has long been a favorite for the role, and while the casting process has spanned years with many names tossed into the ring—including Henry Cavill and Aaron Taylor-Johnson—Hardy remains a strong contender. At 47 years old, Hardy might seem like an unconventional choice compared to younger names in the running, but his performance in Havoc demonstrates that he still possesses the physicality, depth, and screen presence required for the demanding role of 007.

Guzmán’s approval serves as a testament to Hardy’s qualities as an actor—someone who not only commands attention but also delivers a range of performances that captivate audiences. Hardy’s ability to transition between diverse characters, such as the violent and unpredictable Bronson, is precisely the kind of versatility needed for a role as multifaceted as James Bond. His portrayal of complex characters with gravitas has cemented him as one of the most dynamic actors of his generation.

The Reality of Hardy as Bond: What Amazon May Do

Despite Hardy’s obvious qualifications, there is a chance that Amazon, the new owners of the James Bond franchise, will lean towards a younger actor in order to usher in a new era for the series. Bond’s longevity as a character requires not just physicality but also an actor who can carry the role over multiple films and TV shows, potentially spanning several years. A younger actor may offer the opportunity to define Bond for a new generation, potentially making Hardy’s time for the role more unlikely.

While Hardy’s age and the direction of the franchise may factor into the decision, his portrayal of Bond would undoubtedly bring a unique depth and intensity to the character. However, with various films and TV series planned for the Bond universe under Amazon’s stewardship, there is a strong possibility that the studio will seek an actor with more longevity ahead of them, choosing someone who can grow into the role over the course of many years.

Conclusion: A Chance, But a Narrow One

Tom Hardy remains a compelling choice for the next James Bond, thanks to his diverse range of roles and his commanding on-screen presence. Guzmán’s glowing endorsement only reinforces the idea that Hardy could easily slip into the tuxedo and make the role his own. However, given the studio’s likely preference for a younger actor to lead the franchise into its next chapter, it seems more probable that Hardy’s time as 007 has passed. While the possibility is still there, it’s likely that Amazon will ultimately choose to launch a new era of Bond with a fresh face to carry the franchise forward.

Still, if Hardy were ever to take up the iconic role, there’s little doubt that he would leave an indelible mark on the legacy of James Bond. Whether it’s in Havoc or as the next 007, Tom Hardy’s ability to do “anything he wants” is evident—and that’s exactly what makes him one of the best actors of his generation.