Filming for the next James Bond movie might be headed to Liverpool, with reports suggesting the iconic British city is being considered as an alternative location for the superspy’s next adventure.
According to The Sun, Amazon, which now has creative control over the Bond franchise, is scouting fresh locations after a filming ban is set to take effect in Central London next year.
Liverpool’s Familiar Appeal for Filmmakers
Liverpool, already known for its impressive landmarks like the Liver Building and the River Mersey, has often stood in for London on screen in the past.
The city has been used in films ranging from The Batman to Captain America and even the Harry Potter series, where it portrayed international cities.
According to an insider, while it doesn’t necessarily mean the story will take place in Liverpool, the city’s presence in the background could be unmistakable for fans familiar with its landmarks.
This move might raise some eyebrows among Bond purists, who are already skeptical of Amazon’s influence over the franchise.
The thought of major changes to 007 could be unsettling for some, but Liverpool’s reputation as a versatile filming location could make it a smart choice.
Amazon’s Bold New Moves for the Bond Franchise
Earlier this year, Amazon took creative control of the James Bond franchise, making waves with plans for the future.
Reports earlier this month also indicated that the company might be casting the youngest-ever Bond for prequels set in the 1950s and 1960s.
Florence Pugh is also rumored to be set to star in a TV spin-off based on Moneypenny’s diaries.
Daniel Craig’s portrayal of Bond came to an end in 2021 with No Time to Die, but speculation about his successor is already heating up.
One name frequently mentioned is James Nelson-Joyce, a rising star from Liverpool who has recently gained attention for his role as crime boss Michael Kavanagh in This City Is Ours, a gritty BBC drama.
His impressive performance has earned him widespread recognition, and now fans are buzzing about the possibility of him taking over as 007.
James Nelson-Joyce Makes His Case for Bond
James Nelson-Joyce, 36, has quickly become a fan favorite, and bookmakers have noticed.
After the debut of This City Is Ours, his odds of becoming the next Bond have drastically dropped, from 25-1 to 6-1.
In an interview with the BBC, James shared his excitement about the possibility, joking, “I mean… double oh Scouse, I’m here for it.”
According to Coral Bookmakers, James has made a huge impression, with Coral’s John Hill noting that the actor’s strong performance in the crime drama has significantly increased his chances.
James joins a growing list of potential Bond contenders, including The White Lotus star Theo James, Superman actor Henry Cavill, and Happy Valley‘s James Norton.
Fans are also backing other names like Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Jonathan Bailey for the coveted role.
What Fans Can Expect From Bond’s Future
Despite speculation about changes to the iconic character, it was recently confirmed that the next James Bond will remain male and either British or from the Commonwealth.
This confirmation comes amid concerns that Amazon’s control might lead to major shifts in the franchise, but it looks like the character’s legacy will be preserved for now.
As the Bond franchise evolves, one thing is clear: with new locations, potential new faces, and plenty of excitement in the air, the future of 007 remains as thrilling as ever.