From 1973 to 1985, the iconic British actor was best known for portraying James Bond in seven films.
Even after he had hung up his tuxedo for the final time, Moore was anxious to discuss the 007 role and who should be a part of the franchise moving forward.
And in 2016, he revealed who he would like to succeed Daniel Craig when Craig’s time as James Bond comes to an end.
While some prominent British actors in Hollywood, such as Henry Cavill, Tom Hardy, and Regé-Jean Page, have always been promoted as possible Bond favorites, Moore instead chose a more reserved actor from the BBC.
Sean Connery stated that his successor as James Bond was ‘too elderly’
Moore stated on Sunday to the Daily Star, “I believe Aidan Turner would make an excellent James Bond.”
Aidan Turner is primarily recognized for his role as Ross Poldark in the BBC period drama Poldark. The Irish actor also rose to prominence after portraying Kili in the Lord of the Rings spin-off trilogy The Hobbit.
Moore continued: “I am fond of Aidan. I believe he is performing admirably as Ross [Poldark]. He is attractive and possesses an imposing presence. “It’s fantastic that he’s become so popular with the general public.
Moore went on to compare Turner to Sean Connery, the first and most recognizable James Bond of all time.
“I believe he would make an outstanding Bond. Aidan is a talented actor, and the original 007, Sean Connery, was also a talented actor. Aidan is more than competent of playing this role,’ he continued.
“Good luck to him if he gets it,” Moore said. I will be very happy for him.
Even years after Moore’s support, Turner remains in contention to become the Next James Bond.
Turner has odds of 20/1 at Ladbrokes to be the next actor to don a tuxedo and drink his martinis shaken, not stirred.
However, he still has a long way to go, as the favorite, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, has astronomical odds of 15/8.