Tough guy actor Tom Hardy has been revealed as the bookies’ new favourite to be the next James Bond.
The 43-year-old, who played both Kray twins in gangster film Legend, is the 6-4 favourite at bookmaker Coral to follow in Daniel Craig’s footsteps as the next 007.
McMafia actor James Norton, 35, is in second place with odds of 5-2, while Scottish actor Sam Heughan, 40, best known for his role in the historical drama Outlander, is the other main contender at 6-1.
Coral’s Harry Aitkenhead said: “We’re being made to wait for who the next James Bond will be with Daniel Craig’s swansong being delayed.
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“But our betting predicts that it will be Tom Hardy who steps into 007’s shoes.
"James Norton and Sam Heughan are the other contenders, and it wouldn't be a surprise to see either of them given the gig."
Other actors in the running are Idris Elba (10-1), Richard Madden and Jamie Bell (12-1).
Speculation over who is to play 007 next has been rife ever since Craig announced his departure, with fans eager to see who dons the famous tuxedo next.
Craig is the longest serving Bond (after 4,527 days at the helm) - taking over from Sir Roger Moore, but the heartthrob’s time playing the spy is up after the release of his fifth and final film later this year.
No Time To Die is Craig's last movie as Bond, and odds have now been suspended over who will step into his shoes next.
The Vulcan Reporter claims to have heard that Hardy was offered the part following a successful audition.
The publication claims the Legend actor was due to be announced as the new 007 in November to coincide with the No Time To Die release, but this has been pushed back due to the pandemic.
The announcement on who will be taking over will now be made later this year or in early 2021, it is reported.