#SHOWBIZ: Henry Golding says playing James Bond would be a 'nightmare' despite the honour

New Straits Times

7 hours ago

LOS ANGELES: Despite being frequently named as a potential successor to Daniel Craig to play James Bond, Sarawak-born international star Henry Golding admits the idea of taking on the iconic role feels daunting.
In a recent interview with People, Golding, 38, confessed: "I think that's every actor's kind of nightmare. But at the same time, (you're) also wanting to kind of add something new to a franchise."
While the 'Crazy Rich Asians' star acknowledges the appeal of the role, he believes the immense cultural weight attached to Bond makes it less attractive. "Maybe I'm just a p****, I don't know," he joked.
"But I would love it so much more if there wasn't that overhanging cultural pressure."
Golding suggested that the Bond universe could benefit from evolving beyond a single 007 figure.
"Why can't they bring out more agents or more 00s? I think that would be so much more fun, because there just isn't the restraints and the expectation."
Though he previously called being linked to the role an "honour," Golding also pointed out that the world may not yet be fully ready for a non-white Bond.
Born in Malaysia and raised in the UK to Iban and English parents, the actor reflected on how his appearance in 'Crazy Rich Asians', particularly the scene where he steps out in a white suit, had sparked speculation.
"I'm Asian, and everyone's fighting for a Bond. Sorry, white guys," he quipped in a conversation with Attitude magazine.
Still, Golding sees progress in the ongoing discussions about diversity in casting.
"Isn't it great we're having that conversation? Isn't it great that people are like, 'Ok, now it's time, why the hell can't we have a black Bond, an Asian Bond, a mixed-race Bond, a non-distinct Bond?"
"I don't know…It's an honour to even be in the conversation.