Hugh Jackman has disclosed that he was offered the role of James Bond in 2006’s Casino Royale, but turned it down because of his existing commitment to playing Wolverine in the X-Men films.
Jackman, who portrayed the mutant hero from 2000’s X-Men through to 2017’s Logan, revealed during an interview with Indiewire that he felt playing both characters would leave him with no time for other projects. “If I’m doing that and Wolverine, I’ll have no time to do anything else,” he said.
The actor also expressed a desire to avoid being typecast as the archetypal action hero. He explained that he found it more interesting “to play people who colour outside the lines.”
Ultimately, the role of James Bond went to Daniel Craig. However, Henry Cavill has said he was nearly cast, and David Tennant also revealed he was considered. Craig stepped down after 2021’s No Time To Die; producer Michael G. Wilson has indicated the next Bond will likely be in his thirties.
Jackman is set to reprise his role as Wolverine in the upcoming Deadpool 3, due for release on 6 September 2024, which will be the first Deadpool film within the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
