Pierce Brosnan Calls Aaron Taylor-Johnson ‘Great’ for James Bond—Here’s Why He Thinks So

As speculation continues to swirl about who will succeed Daniel Craig as James Bond, one prominent voice has weighed in with an endorsement that carries significant weight—Pierce Brosnan. Known for his own portrayal of 007 in four films, including GoldenEye (1995) and Die Another Day (2002), Brosnan has recently expressed his belief that Aaron Taylor-Johnson is the ideal choice to take up the mantle of the iconic spy. This endorsement, made in interviews around early April 2025, provides not only insight into Brosnan’s perspective but also reflects his professional relationship with Taylor-Johnson.

Brosnan’s Endorsement: “He Would Be Great”

In interviews with Yahoo Entertainment and The Los Angeles Times in April 2025, Brosnan shared his thoughts on Taylor-Johnson, who has become one of the most frequently speculated names in the race for the next Bond. Brosnan made it clear that he believes Taylor-Johnson would be an excellent fit for the role, stating, “If he wished it, wanted it, and got it, he would be great.” Brosnan’s confidence stems not only from Taylor-Johnson’s talent but also from their past collaboration on the 2009 drama The Greatest, which Brosnan executive produced.

Brosnan fondly recalled Taylor-Johnson’s performance in the film, noting that the actor “came on the set and took the space, filled the space with passion and energy.” This observation, coming from a former Bond himself, underscores Taylor-Johnson’s ability to command attention and bring intensity to his roles—traits that would be crucial for portraying the complex and demanding character of James Bond.

Taylor-Johnson’s Suitability for Bond

At 34 years old, Taylor-Johnson is seen as within the ideal age range for the role, which has historically favored actors in their mid-30s. His recent roles, including high-profile films like Nosferatu, have kept him in the public eye, and his dramatic range has impressed both audiences and critics. Brosnan’s praise emphasizes Taylor-Johnson’s versatility, charisma, and capability to evolve within a long-term role—attributes that align with the Bond legacy.

The actor’s ability to balance action and emotional depth, coupled with his established on-screen presence, makes him a natural fit for the character, especially in light of the franchise’s evolving tone and more complex storylines in the post-Daniel Craig era. Brosnan’s endorsement adds significant credibility to the ongoing speculation that Taylor-Johnson is among the front-runners for the role.

The James Bond Franchise’s Future and the Casting Process

The James Bond franchise is entering a new era under the ownership of Amazon, which has sparked debates about the future direction of the series. With Daniel Craig’s tenure ending after No Time to Die (2021), the search for the next Bond has dominated entertainment news. The franchise has also discussed potential spin-offs and tie-in movies, further adding to the complexity of the casting process.

While Brosnan’s endorsement is an influential voice, it does not guarantee that Taylor-Johnson will officially be cast. Multiple stakeholders, including producers, screenwriters, and Amazon executives, will ultimately decide the direction of the franchise. However, Brosnan’s unique position as a former Bond actor gives his endorsement added significance. Having portrayed 007 for nearly a decade, Brosnan understands the intricacies of the role and the qualities required to succeed in such an iconic part.

Speculation and Broader Implications

Taylor-Johnson’s endorsement from Brosnan adds momentum to his candidacy, but it also serves as a reminder of the many voices involved in the decision-making process. While Taylor-Johnson’s name has been consistently mentioned in casting discussions, other actors remain in the mix, with public speculation continuing to swirl.

Brosnan’s comments, made during interviews promoting his own projects, offer a fresh perspective on the potential future of the Bond franchise. As one of the last actors to portray 007 before Craig, Brosnan’s endorsement of Taylor-Johnson not only highlights the actor’s talent but also reflects his belief that the franchise can evolve with a new, dynamic actor at the helm.

A Strong Candidate Among Many

While Aaron Taylor-Johnson is a strong contender, the search for the next James Bond remains ongoing. His rising profile, combined with Brosnan’s backing, places him in an advantageous position, but the final decision rests with the powers that be. Other actors are also being considered, and as the casting process unfolds, it will be interesting to see which direction the Bond franchise takes.

Ultimately, Brosnan’s support provides further validation of Taylor-Johnson’s suitability for the role. With his combination of passion, energy, and acting ability, Taylor-Johnson could very well be the next actor to don the tuxedo and step into the shoes of the legendary British spy. The James Bond series, now under new management, will likely evolve in exciting ways, and with Taylor-Johnson as 007, it could continue to captivate audiences for years to come.