Aaron Taylor-Johnson has emerged as a frontrunner to potentially succeed Daniel Craig as James Bond, but his rumored casting is facing increased scrutiny. Several factors are contributing to the debate, ranging from his public image to resurfaced allegations of on-set behavior.
One of the primary reasons for the scrutiny stems from resurfaced allegations of misconduct during the filming of the 2012 movie Savages. Sandra Echeverría, Taylor-Johnson's co-star, stated in 2020 that Taylor-Johnson and co-star Taylor Kitsch caused her physical harm during a kidnapping scene. Echeverría claimed that the actors started the vehicle abruptly between takes while her character was bound inside a van, causing her to be thrown around and injured. She said she "hated them" for the incident. These claims have gained traction online, leading to a reevaluation of Taylor-Johnson's suitability for the Bond role.
The Bond franchise is known for its polished image and global appeal and tends to avoid controversy. The resurfacing of these allegations could give studio executives pause.
Beyond the allegations, some observers have questioned whether Taylor-Johnson fits the mold of James Bond. Daniel Craig's portrayal brought a grittier, more intense edge to the character, and some fans may be looking for a similar direction. Others may prefer a return to the classic, suave, and sophisticated Bond of earlier eras. Taylor-Johnson, known for roles in films like Kick-Ass and Avengers: Age of Ultron, may not immediately project the image that some audiences associate with the iconic spy.
The actor's relatively private personal life has also come under scrutiny. While maintaining a low profile is not inherently a drawback, the intense media attention surrounding the Bond role often leads to increased interest in the actor's personal life.
Despite the scrutiny, Taylor-Johnson remains a strong contender. He has the support of some industry figures, with filmmaker Gurinder Chadha recalling how she had to fight for Taylor-Johnson's casting in her film Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging. Chadha believes Taylor-Johnson would be "perfect" for the Bond role.
Taylor-Johnson has addressed the Bond rumors, calling them "flattering" but emphasizing his focus on staying grounded. He has also evaded direct questions about the role, pointing instead to his upcoming film projects.
Ultimately, the decision of who will be the next James Bond rests with the franchise's producers, Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson. They have stated that they are looking for an actor in their 30s who is likely to commit to the role for at least a decade. The producers have also stated that whiteness is not a given. The casting decision will likely depend on a combination of factors, including talent, public image, and the ability to embody the complex character of James Bond.
