Ralph Fiennes believes he talked himself out of playing James Bond after suggesting the franchise should become a stark, black-and-white 1950s film noir
The 63-year-old actor, now known as intelligence chief Gareth Mallory, said his preference for Ian Fleming’s darker novels did not fit the series’ increasingly playful style
He praised Daniel Craig for later giving Bond a grittier, more believable reinvention
Meanwhile, Jack Lowden is reportedly favourite to replace Craig, with Callum Turner also among the finalists
Producers hope to begin filming in 2027.