Actor Damian Lewis attends a news conference to promote the movie 'Queen of the Desert' in competition at the 65th Berlinale International Film Festival, in Berlin February 6, 2015.
Actor Damian Lewis attends a news conference to promote the movie 'Queen of the Desert' in competition at the 65th Berlinale International Film Festival, in Berlin February 6, 2015. Reuters/Stefanie Loos

Damian Lewis is reportedly the top contender to portray the next Agent 007 in the “James Bond” movie franchise. The British actor beats other rumoured actors in the shortlist, including Tom Hardy and Idris Elba.

Damian has reportedly been given “an unofficial nod” to replace Daniel Craig as James Bond. A source revealed to Mirror UK that Lewis, best known for playing Nicholas Brody in “Homeland,” is the first choice if producers hand the iconic role to another actor.

"He is seen as an all-round international star who is perfect for the role. As he ages, he looks increasingly suave and sophisticated. Daniel excels in the role and there is no pressure on him to step down. But if he does, people close to Damian have had an unofficial nod he is the number one choice,” the source said.

However, despite the ongoing casting speculations, big bosses are reportedly putting the final decision on hold to prioritise Craig’s latest James Bond film.

“But at the moment all focus is on the release of 'Spectre' in November. Producers are convinced it’s a particularly strong 007 movie,” the unnamed source revealed to Mirror UK.

Lewis has been rumoured as a strong contender for the role since June. A gamble for the actor to be the next James Bond placed him as second choice after Idris Elba. Esquire noted that the odds skyrocketed to 3/1 from 25/1 among punters in William Hill PLC, one of the largest bookmakers in the United Kingdom.

Damian has also previously expressed his interest to play the character during an interview with Metro back in September 2013. The actor said it would be “wonderful” playing James Bond. However, he also acknowledged that it may take time before another actor will be cast for the role since Craig will be playing the character a bit longer.

“If it ever comes to that, I'll cross that bridge when I get to it,” he said.

It might take some time before another actor takes over Craig’s role, as Daniel is set to do another James Bond film after “Spectre.” Metro claims the actor is tied to the character at least until 2020.

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