Pierce Brosnan Endorses Tom Hardy as a “Wonderful” Candidate for Next James Bond

As the James Bond franchise navigates a new era following Daniel Craig’s departure after No Time to Die (2021), speculation about the next 007 continues to captivate fans worldwide. Recently, Pierce Brosnan—the iconic actor who portrayed Bond from 1995 to 2002—added his voice to the conversation during a June 2025 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, giving a notably positive nod to his MobLand co-star Tom Hardy as a potential successor.

Brosnan’s Cautious but Enthusiastic Endorsement

Initially, Brosnan maintained a diplomatic tone, stating, “I have no picks. I shall leave it open to the powers that be. It’s a very exciting moment in the history of James Bond.” However, when asked directly about Hardy, the former Bond’s tone brightened with enthusiasm: “Oh! Tom would be wonderful.” Though he quickly tempered his enthusiasm by acknowledging the many talented actors who could step into the role, Brosnan’s succinct praise has fueled further speculation about Hardy’s future as 007.

While Brosnan did not elaborate on why Hardy would make a great Bond, his endorsement carries significant weight given his own legacy within the franchise. Brosnan’s career-defining performances in GoldenEye, Tomorrow Never Dies, The World Is Not Enough, and Die Another Day cement him as an authority on what it takes to embody the legendary British spy.

The MobLand Connection

Brosnan’s comments came amid discussions of MobLand, a British crime drama that reunites him with Hardy. Brosnan plays Conrad Harrigan, while Hardy takes on the role of Harry Da Souza—complex characters that showcase their acting range and intensity. This professional rapport likely informed Brosnan’s favorable view, highlighting their recent collaboration as a key factor in his endorsement.

What Makes Tom Hardy a Strong Bond Contender?

Though Brosnan’s remarks were brief and without detailed reasoning, outside analyses have praised Hardy’s suitability for the role. Hardy’s career is marked by intense, multifaceted performances—capturing both cold violence and charm—as seen in films like Venom and Warrior. Fans and critics alike speculate that Hardy could bring a fresh, gritty edge to Bond, differing from the more polished or reserved portrayals by Brosnan and Craig.

The Broader Context of the Bond Casting Speculation

Brosnan’s comments arrive during a period of heightened interest as Amazon MGM Studios takes a stronger role in the franchise’s future. His endorsement adds to the growing chorus of support for Hardy from industry insiders, though Brosnan remains respectfully neutral, emphasizing the final decision rests with producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson.

Media outlets have picked up on Brosnan’s endorsement, with coverage ranging from enthusiastic headlines to more tempered analyses noting the absence of a detailed rationale. The general consensus reflects a blend of excitement and cautious optimism about Hardy’s potential.

Navigating the Field of Candidates

Brosnan’s diplomatic approach—acknowledging “many great actors” could fit the role—mirrors the broader uncertainty surrounding the next Bond. While Hardy is among the leading contenders in fan and betting markets, other actors remain in the running. Brosnan’s experience as a former Bond shapes his measured stance, balancing enthusiasm with respect for the franchise’s tradition and the producers’ ultimate choice.

Pierce Brosnan’s brief but heartfelt endorsement of Tom Hardy as a potential James Bond adds an intriguing dimension to the ongoing debate about the franchise’s future. Whether Hardy will ultimately don the iconic tuxedo remains to be seen, but with Brosnan’s nod and a growing fan base rallying behind him, the conversation about the next 007 just got a little more exciting.