Pierce Brosnan Says Cillian Murphy Would 'Do a Magnificent Job' Playing James Bond

As for whether he himself would consider stepping into the shoes of 007, Murphy said: “No. I think I’m a bit old for it.”

Pierce Brosnan has someone in mind to play 007.

The actor, who played James Bond in four films from 1995 to 2002, thinks fellow Irish star Cillian Murphy would be great in the role.

“Cillian would do a magnificent job as James Bond in On His Majesty’s Secret Service,” Brosnan, 70, told the BBC at the Oscar Wilde Awards on Thursday, where he was honored alongside Molly Shannon and visual effects supervisor Richie Baneham.

Despite Brosnan giving Murphy, 47, his stamp to play the fictional secret agent, Oppenheimer the star feels different.

“No. I think I’m a little old for it,” Murphy told reporters on the red carpet about whether he would be interested in taking on the mantle of James Bond.

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling people-interest stories.

Pierce Brosnan as James Bond in Die another day (2002).

Cinematheque/Shutterstock

Pierce Brosnan’s Five Children: Everything He Said About Parenting

Brosnan was joined by his wife of more than 20 years, Keely Shaye Brosnan, at the star-studded event held at the offices of Bad Robot Productions in Santa Monica, California.

As he was honored at Thursday’s ceremony, Brosnan reflected on his decades-long acting career in his speech.

He shared, “I’ve been an actor all my life. I’ve been an actor since I was 18. I came here to America in 1982. I fell on a wing and a prayer, and I’ve been very lucky.”

Brosnan also recalled leaving London: “I borrowed £2,000 from a bank manager in Wimbledon and said I had a job here in America and jumped into Freddie Laker. I think the tickets cost a hundred pounds and you bring your own sandwiches.”

“I don’t remember what I ate, it wasn’t a sandwich, but I ended up on Sunset and rented a car from Rent-A-Wreck,” he continued. “I drove over Laurel Canyon and to my first interview in 1982. And they asked for Remington Steele. They said, ‘Yes.’ I said yes.’ I was very lucky.”

Pierce Brosnan and wife Keely at the Oscar Wilde Awards on March 7, 2024 in Santa Monica, California.

Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty

Pierce Brosnan was cited for allegedly trespassing into protected thermal areas of Yellowstone Park

Brosnan has appeared in a number of TV shows and films, including 1993’s Mrs. Doubtfirebefore making his 007 debut in 1995 Golden eye.

He continued acting in 1997 Tomorrow never diesin 1999 The world is not enough and in 2002 Die another day before handing over the role to Daniel Craig, who played James Bond in five films from 2006 to 2021.

Rumors have swirled for years about who will replace Craig, 56, in the role, with actors rumored to include Idris Elba, Henry Cavill and Aaron Taylor-Johnson.

As for Murphy, he told reporters Thursday that he thinks Brosnan is a “wonderful man,” who he’s been a fan of since his appearance on the hit ’80s series. Remington Steele.

Asked if Brosnan had ever given him advice, the Oscar nominee said: “No. We just chat. People don’t really give advice, but he’s a wonderful man.”

Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education