Rhys reveals how he blew a chance to play James Bond
NEW YORK >> A bad James Bond joke cost Matthew Rhys a big gig when he auditioned for the role of 007.
In a new interview with U.K.’s The
Times, the actor — known for his work in binge-worthy cable dramas “The Americans” and “Perry Mason” — said his humorous answer to a question from producers didn’t land well. And it ultimately cost him a shot at the iconic role in 2006’s “Casino Royale.”
“‘What would you do differently with Bond?’ ” he recalled being asked during his “terrifying” audition. “I just remember going, ‘Ah,’ I was so not anticipating that question. And then I was like, is it a trick question? Are they waiting for people to go, ‘I wouldn’t do anything. He’s perfect’?”
Instead, the Welsh thespian decided to make a joke on how he’d take on the role — a stark contrast from the suave secret agent the world was already accustomed to.
“I’d give him a limp,” I said, “‘Limp?’ Nothing. ‘Eye patch?’ Nothing.”
Needless to say, Rhys didn’t get the role.
It was Daniel Craig who would go on to star as 007 in five blockbuster movies — ending his run with 2021’s “No Time To Die.”
But, as it turns out, Rhys hasn’t done too bad for himself either.