The Top Gun: Maverick star insists the iconic 007 role belongs to a Brit, not a Texan—‘I can play Jimmy Bond, but not James Bond.’

August 21, 2025 — In a candid and humorous moment, Glen Powell has officially disqualified himself from the running to become the next James Bond. “I’m Texan. A Texan should not play James Bond.” He added with a laugh, “I can play Jimmy Bond, but I should not be playing James Bond.”

A Respectful Nod to Bond Tradition

Powell emphasized the importance of the franchise’s British legacy. “Get an authentic Brit for that job,” he said. His comment lands on a historic note—every actor to portray 007 thus far has hailed from England or Ireland, and Powell believes this tradition should continue.

A Career Built on Authenticity

Despite the growing speculation around his potential as Bond—fueled by his roles in hits like Anyone But You, Twisters, and Hit Man—Powell remains focused on his own path. He’s currently promoting Chad Powers on Hulu and starring in Edgar Wright’s adaptation of The Running Man, set for a November release. He’s also spoken of his aspirations to eventually direct, learning from industry veterans such as Richard Linklater and J. J. Abrams.

A Bigger Conversation: Identity & Representation

Powell’s comments also highlight a broader cultural discussion: can one truly embody Bond without heritage ties to the UK? By stepping aside, Powell brings respect to the franchise’s identity while reinforcing that Bond’s legacy—and the expectations that come with it—remain rooted in its origins.