James Norton has addressed persistent rumours that he is set to become the next James Bond, describing the speculation as 'weird and bemusing'. The actor, known for roles in Grantchester and Playing Nice, spoke on the BAFTA Film Awards red carpet on Sunday.
When told by TV presenter Alex Zane that he is the bookies' favourite to replace Daniel Craig, Norton responded: 'Whoever is deciding on these odds needs to get a new job. It's so weird and bemusing.' He added that the rumours are 'based on pure speculation' and make for 'good clickbait'.
Norton also addressed a fan theory that his character in Playing Nice not wearing a tuxedo at a black-tie event was a clue he had signed a Bond contract. He sarcastically said: 'If that's not evidence to seal the deal, I don't know what is.' However, when pressed if he was confirming the news, he quickly replied: 'I'm not. Please, don't follow up with another story.'
Norton is set to present an award at the BAFTA Film Awards alongside Joy co-star Thomasin McKenzie. The ceremony, hosted by David Tennant, also saw appearances from Pamela Anderson, Molly-Mae Hague, and Jeff Goldblum.
