Majority of Brits think Idris Elba should be the next James Bond

By Charlotte Minett via SWNS

Idris Elba is the United Kingdom's favorite to be the next James Bond.

A poll of 2,000 people saw the "Luther" star take one in five votes, comfortably beating Tom Hardy and Henry Cavill to the top spot.

Happy Valley star James Norton, BAFTA winner Cillian Murphy and noughties teen heartthrob Aaron Taylor-Johnson were also popular choices.

Some women also made the top 20 list, including Emilia Clarke, Emily Blunt and Helen Mirren.

But 46 percent of fans admitted that if the next actor cast to play the spy isn't someone they like, they'll consider not watching the future films at all.

It also emerged 72 percent think the actor should be English, with 81 percent hoping for a male star, while the next film should be directed by Christopher Nolan.

A spokesperson for Lottoland.co.uk, which commissioned the research on behalf of its Casino division, said: “James Bond is a topic that certainly gets the nation talking.

“There are some really interesting names to make it into the top 20 list, but it’s not a shock to see Idris Elba taking the top spot with his sleek and cool demeanor.

“Let’s hope the casting agents see this.”

The research also saw Sean Connery, Daniel Craig and Roger Moore named among the best Bonds so far.

But 86 percent think that no matter who the producers pick to play the character next, someone will complain about it.

It also emerged gadgets, fast cars and pretty women are the top things associated with the famous spy series.

Closely followed by posh suits and casinos - although 72 percent have never even read the original 007 novels the films are based on.

The study carried out via OnePoll, also revealed that 24 percent of men polled think they themselves would play a good James Bond, thanks to being a good driver, ability to think on their feet and bravery.

And 19 percent are likely to place a bet on who would be cast next.

The Lottoland.co.uk spokesperson added: “There have been some iconic actors playing the 007 agent in the past, old and new.

“It’s also great to see how many people think they would make a good Bond – especially the men and that Casinos are closely associated with the famous spy.”

TOP 20 ACTORS BRITS WANT TO BE THE NEXT JAMES BOND

1. Idris Elba
2. Tom Hardy
3. Henry Cavill
4. James Norton
5. Cillian Murphy
6. Tom Hiddleston
7. Tom Holland
8. Jamie Dornan
9. Aaron Taylor-Johnson
10. Richard Madden
11. Rege Jean Page
12. Luke Evans
13. Leo Woodall
14. Emilia Clarke
15. Emily Blunt
16. Helen Mirren
17. Barry Keoghan
18. Theo James
19. Lupita Nyong’o
20. Sam Heughan