James Bond is one of Hollywood’s most iconic characters, but some famous actors nearly played 007 and came surprisingly close to landing the role. Let’s take a look at some of the stars who nearly became James Bond, and why things didn’t quite work out. Dick Van Dyke may seem like an unexpected choice for the suave British spy, and he had his doubts, too. In an interview with ‘Today’ host Al Roker, Van Dyke explained that Bond producer Albert “Cubby” Broccoli personally asked him if he wanted the role. Best known for his questionable English accent in 'Mary Poppins,' Van Dyke reportedly responded, “Have you heard my British accent?” His concern was understandable, given Bond’s distinctly British image. Before becoming Superman, Henry Cavill auditioned for the lead role in 'Casino Royale,' but the role eventually went to Daniel Craig. Cavill later told Men's Health that he wished he had prepared more physically for the audition. “I remember the director, Martin Campbell, saying, 'Looking a little chubby there, Henry,'” Cavill recalled. He added that he appreciated Campbell’s honesty because the feedback helped him improve. Clint Eastwood was offered the chance to play Bond after Sean Connery stepped away from the role. However, Eastwood turned it down because he felt the character belonged to Connery. Speaking to the LA Times' Hero Complex blog, he explained, “It didn't feel right for me to be doing it.” Even Hugh Jackman considered playing Bond, but he worried that the commitment would clash with his work as Wolverine in the 'X-Men' franchise. In a 2022 interview with IndieWire, he explained that taking on both characters would leave him with little time for anything else. He also said he was more drawn to playing characters who “color outside the lines.”
