Pierce Brosnan, known for his portrayal of James Bond in four films, has endorsed Cillian Murphy as a potential successor to the iconic role. However, Murphy, aged 47, feels that the opportunity has passed him by, citing his age as a factor. The discussion arose during the Oscar Wilde Awards in Los Angeles, where Brosnan expressed his confidence in Murphy’s ability to portray the international spy.

Despite Brosnan’s endorsement, Murphy stated to Variety that he feels he is “a little old” for the role, indicating that he sees himself in a different phase of his career. With Daniel Craig retiring from the role in 2021 after “No Time to Die,” speculation about his successor has been rampant.

Various names have been floated as potential contenders, including Idris Elba, Tom Hardy, Regé-Jean Page, Paul Mescal, and Kingsley Ben-Adir, among others. There were even rumors of the possibility of two actors taking on the role in the upcoming 26th Bond film.

However, no official announcement has been made regarding the next James Bond, and the film’s release date remains unknown. Whoever assumes the role will inherit a legacy established by actors such as Sean Connery, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Brosnan, and Craig.

Brosnan first embodied James Bond in 1995’s “GoldenEye” and continued in the role through three more films. Craig succeeded him, portraying the spy in five films, with “No Time to Die” marking his final appearance.

Meanwhile, Murphy finds himself in the spotlight as a frontrunner for the Best Actor Oscar for his performance in Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer.” The film, which has garnered 13 Oscar nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director, underscores Murphy’s prominence in the industry.

As speculation continues about the future of the James Bond franchise, fans eagerly await news of the next actor to don the iconic tuxedo and carry on the legacy of the legendary spy.