Jason Statham’s Surprising Take on Aaron Pierre as the Next James Bond

The James Bond franchise, a cinematic juggernaut spanning over six decades, is no stranger to shaking things up. From Sean Connery’s suave charm to Daniel Craig’s gritty intensity, each 007 era brings a fresh face and a new vibe. Now, with whispers swirling that Amazon MGM Studios is eyeing British actor Aaron Pierre as the next James Bond, the internet is buzzing. But what’s got everyone talking isn’t just the potential casting of the first Black 007—it’s action star Jason Statham’s unexpected reaction to the news.

At 31, Aaron Pierre is a rising star with a resume that screams potential. His standout role as a battle-hardened Marine in Netflix’s 2024 thriller Rebel Ridge showcased his ability to command the screen with both physical prowess and emotional depth. Add to that his casting as John Stewart in HBO’s upcoming Lanterns series and his voice work as a young Mufasa in Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King, and it’s clear Pierre is on a meteoric rise. Industry insiders, including scooper Daniel Richtman, have reported that Amazon is seriously considering Pierre for Bond 26, directed by Dune visionary Denis Villeneuve. If true, this would mark a historic shift, making Pierre the first Black actor to don the iconic tuxedo.

The news has sparked a whirlwind of reactions, and Jason Statham, the Expendables and Transporter icon, has thrown his voice into the mix with a perspective that’s turning heads. Known for his tough-guy roles and a career that’s flirted with Bond-like spy antics in films like Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre, Statham has long been a fan favorite for a 007 role. Yet, in a recent interview, he didn’t push for himself but instead offered a candid take on Pierre’s rumored casting. “The new Bond just has to be British, and Pierre fits that bill,” Statham said, nodding to the actor’s London roots. “I saw him in Rebel Ridge—he’s got the grit, the charisma, and the physicality. If they’re looking for someone to carry that legacy, he’s a solid bet.”

Statham’s endorsement is no small thing. At 57, he’s a veteran of high-octane action films, and his nod to Pierre carries weight among fans who trust his instincts. He went on to praise the idea of a fresh direction for the franchise, especially under Amazon’s new creative control. After acquiring MGM for $8.5 billion in 2022, Amazon has handed the reins to producers David Heyman and Amy Pascal, sidelining longtime Bond custodians Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson. This shift has fueled speculation about a modernized 007, and Statham seems intrigued. “The franchise needs to evolve,” he noted. “Pierre could bring something raw and real, but still keep that Bond swagger.”

Of course, not everyone is on board. Social media, particularly on platforms like X, has erupted with mixed reactions. Some fans celebrate the idea of a Black Bond, pointing to Pierre’s magnetic screen presence and the franchise’s need to reflect a changing world. Others, however, have pushed back, arguing that Bond should remain true to Ian Fleming’s original vision of a white British spy. One X post called the potential casting a “stain on the franchise,” while another praised Pierre’s “undeniable star power.” The debate is heated, but Statham’s support adds a layer of credibility to Pierre’s candidacy, especially as betting odds place him alongside heavyweights like Theo James and Henry Cavill.

What makes Pierre’s potential casting so compelling is the timing. With Villeneuve at the helm, known for crafting visually stunning and emotionally complex films, Bond 26 promises to be a bold reinvention. Pierre’s youth—he’s in his early 30s—aligns with Amazon’s reported desire for an actor who can commit to the role for a decade or more. His performance in Rebel Ridge, which boasts a 95% Rotten Tomatoes score, proves he can handle intense action while bringing depth to a character caught in a web of corruption. It’s not hard to imagine him trading punches with villains or charming his way through a Monte Carlo casino.

As the Bond franchise stands at a crossroads, Statham’s unexpected backing of Pierre has only fanned the flames of curiosity. Will Pierre step into the iconic role, or will another contender like Aaron Taylor-Johnson or Jack Lowden take the spotlight? With filming rumored to start in 2026, the world is watching. One thing’s certain: the next 007 will carry a legacy that’s as thrilling as it is divisive, and Statham’s vote of confidence might just tip the scales.