Austin Butler rules himself out of James Bond role, claims an American 007 would be “sacrilegious”

Austin Butler has confirmed he will not be stepping into the shoes of James Bond, despite speculation linking him to the iconic role.

Speaking on the Hits Radio Breakfast Show with Sam Thompson, the 34-year-old actor made clear that he believes the part should remain British.

“I love that man but no calls as far as James Bond goes but I don't think that would be a good idea [for me to play Bond], I'm an American, I can do an accent but that would be kind of sacrilegious,” Butler said, referring to filmmaker Denis Villeneuve, who is set to direct the next Bond film.

Butler has previously worked with Villeneuve on the Dune franchise and admitted he would enjoy reuniting with the director. However, instead of Bond, the Oscar-nominated star expressed interest in another type of character. “Villain? That would be alright! I'd do that,” he added.

His comments echo those of fellow actor Glen Powell, who also dismissed the idea of an American portraying 007.

The next instalment of the franchise will be directed by Villeneuve, following 2021’s No Time To Die. In June, the director shared his passion for the series: “Some of my earliest movie-going memories are connected to 007. I grew up watching James Bond films with my father, ever since Dr. No with Sean Connery. I’m a die-hard Bond fan. To me, he’s sacred territory.”

Fans continue to speculate about who will take on the role of Bond, but Butler has made it clear that his future with the franchise, if any, may lie on the other side of the fight.