Yahoo Movies Matthew Rhys recalls "terrifying" Bond audition
Perry Mason star Matthew Rhys was up for the role of 007 after the Pierce Brosnan era came to an end with Die Another Day.
Recalling his "terrifying" audition at the Broccoli family's "incredible office" overlooking Hyde Park, the Welshman told The Times of his homework: "We were just told to wear a dark suit and read Casino Royale".
However, a curveball was quickly thrown in his direction.
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"They said, 'What would you do differently with Bond?' And I just remember going, 'Ah,'" Rhys explained.
"I was so not anticipating that question. And then I was like, is it a trick question? Are they waiting for people to go, 'I wouldn't do anything. He's perfect'?"
Feeling somewhat in limbo, the actor opted for comedy; "I'd give him a limp. I said, 'Limp?' Nothing. 'Eye patch?' Nothing."
And that was that.
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Daniel Craig went on to reimagine James Bond as someone a bit rougher around the edges, but after 15 years as the secret agent's custodian, he hung up the tuxedo in 2021's No Time to Die.
Back in October, producer Michael G. Wilson ruled out a younger incarnation of Bond arriving on the big screen next.
"We've tried looking at younger people in the past but trying to visualise it doesn't work," he revealed.
"Remember, Bond's already a veteran, he's had some experience – he's a person who has been through the wars, so to speak. He's probably been in the SAS or something. He isn't some kid out of high school that you can bring in and start off."
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