Perry Mason star Matthew Rhys recalls once bombing an audition for James Bond. The film series has been led by a number of actors over the years, including Sean Connery, Pierce Brosnan, and most recently, Daniel Craig. Rhys, known for his work on Brothers & Sisters and The Americans, currently stars in HBO’s period drama, which explores the life of fictional criminal defense lawyer, Perry Mason. Through two seasons, Rhys has received praise for his role, and earned Golden Globe and Emmy Award nominations back in 2021.
As conversations surrounding the next James Bond continue, Rhys reveals he previously auditioned for the part. In a recent interview with The Times, the actor shares that during the casting for 2006’s Casino Royale, he made a joke that ultimately fell flat. Read Rhys’ comments regarding his James Bond audition below:
“I do remember a time just before Daniel [Craig] got it. [I was invited to the Broccoli family’s office], this incredible office, looks over the park. Very intimidating. We were just told to wear a dark suit and read Casino Royale. [It was exciting] and terrifying. And they said, “What would you do differently with Bond?” And I just remember going, “Ah.” 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”? [I didn’t want to say] “Oh, it’s been a bit one-note for a few decades, hasn’t it? I think we can drop the misogynistic jokes”. [So, jokingly, I said] I’d give him a limp. I said, “Limp?” Nothing. “Eye patch?” Nothing.“
Would Matthew Rhys Have Made A Good James Bond?
Craig’s take on the character through five installments was so well-received by critics and longtime fans that it can be hard to imagine anyone else tackling the role of Bond. Rhys has proven himself to be a capable spy, though, starring as Philip Jennings in FX’s The Americans, a Soviet agent living in the United States during the Cold War. A lot of the praise for recent Bond films highlighted the action and intensity, and while there might not have been as many big stunts in The Americans, Rhys’ character did know how to fight.
When it comes to the next iteration of 007, there have been multiple rumors about who could take over following Craig’s departure – however, casting for Bond has reportedly not begun yet. While Rhys may no longer be in consideration, it is worth wondering what his portrayal of the character might have looked like. His approach to other roles including Philip Jennings and Perry Mason suggest he could have pulled off the more serious tone.
The list of names brought up in James Bond speculation have included Idris Elba, Taron Egerton, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and more, though some of these have already been debunked. It will be interesting to see what comes of the audition process this time around, and who eventually lands the role. Rhys might have bombed his own James Bond audition, but that does not mean he cannot appear in the franchise somewhere down the line, as a different character.
Source: The Times
