British actor James Norton has withdrawn from consideration for the role of the next 007, declaring that at 40 years old, he believes himself unsuitable for the part.

The Happy Valley and House of Guinness star addressed persistent rumours about his potential casting during a recent interview.

“I think I am too old. I turned 40 this summer,” Mr Norton told The Mirror, suggesting the franchise might be seeking someone younger for the iconic spy role.

The actor has featured prominently in bookmakers’ odds for the past seven years, particularly after his appearance in formal wear during the BBC’s McMafia caught fans’ attention. However, Mr Norton firmly dismissed any ongoing discussions about the role.

“There is no conversation going on,” he stated, attributing the speculation to betting activity rather than genuine casting considerations.

The Bond franchise has secured high-profile talent for its next instalment, with Amazon MGM Studios confirming Denis Villeneuve as director and Steven Knight handling screenplay duties.

Amy Pascal and David Heyman have joined as producers following Daniel Craig’s departure in 2021’s No Time To Die.

Reports suggest casting for Craig’s successor won’t commence until Villeneuve completes Dune: Part Three, scheduled for a December 2026 release.

Production on the 26th Bond film is expected to begin in 2027, with a potential cinema release the following year.

Industry sources indicate the filmmakers are seeking a British male actor in his late twenties or early thirties, preferably an unknown talent.

Knight reportedly plans to revisit Bond’s origins for the storyline, marking a complete franchise reboot.

Mr Norton expressed frustration with the intense media attention surrounding the speculation.

“It is as if someone has a bet on in Wolverhampton, and it is nonsense, and I have paps outside my door. It is all speculation,” he explained.

When asked hypothetically about accepting the role if offered, the actor acknowledged the life-changing nature of becoming Bond.

“It is a difficult decision as it will change your life. I can walk down to the pub [without being recognised that easily],” he said.

The actor values his current anonymity, adding: “I like my life right now. I have no idea what it is like to be Leonardo DiCaprio.

“I imagine the apex is pretty big, but I like the fact I can leave my house and go down to the shop.”

Mr Norton isn’t alone in distancing himself from Bond speculation. Aaron Taylor-Johnson, currently leading betting odds, remained tight-lipped when questioned by Esquire, stating: “It’s not really for me to say anything.”

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Idris Elba, another long-rumoured candidate, joked to RadioX that he’s “arguably more famous for not playing Bond than some of the actors who did,” whilst acknowledging he’s now “ancient” for the part.

Industry insiders suggest the new Bond must possess an imposing physical presence. “Whoever it is has to look like he could kill you with his bare hands in a trice,” a source told Deadline.

Names circulating include Taron Egerton, Tom Holland, Aaron Pierre, Jack Lowden, Jacob Elordi and Harris Dickinson, though sources emphasise no formal casting process has begun.