Josh Brolin Almost Became James Bond Before Marvel Fame
The Marvel star reveals how Roger Moore's last-minute decision cost him the iconic 007 role in 1983's Octopussy, and why he'd still consider Bond today under one specific condition.
Long before Josh Brolin became a household name as Thanos in the Marvel Cinematic Universe or Cable in Deadpool, he came incredibly close to landing one of cinema's most coveted roles. The actor recently opened up about how he nearly became James Bond in 1983's Octopussy, only to have the opportunity slip away at the last possible moment.
Speaking with People magazine, Brolin recalled the devastating turn of events that changed his career trajectory. Roger Moore had initially decided to step away from the franchise, opening the door for a new 007. Brolin flew to London, met with producers, secured an apartment, and even began working with stunt coordinators. Producer Cubby Broccoli had hired him for the role, though contracts hadn't been finalized yet.
"[Roger Moore] was out, so I flew over and I met all the people. And I got my apartment and I started working with the stuntmen and Cubby Broccoli hired me. We hadn't signed any papers yet. I got back to L.A. to get my stuff because I was going to be gone for a year. And I got a call saying Roger decided to do one more, and I was out," Brolin explained.
A Conditional Return to Bond
Despite missing out on the role decades ago, Brolin hasn't completely closed the door on the Bond franchise. However, his participation would depend entirely on one filmmaker: Denis Villeneuve. The Dune director has been tapped to helm upcoming Bond projects, and Brolin's enthusiasm for working with Villeneuve again is unmistakable.
In an interview with The Playlist, Brolin expressed his unwavering confidence in the acclaimed director. "I didn't even have to read Dune, even though I knew the story, to wanna do it with Denis; Denis is it for me. We have a very close relationship; he's a stellar filmmaker. I like working with people I like and who are stellar filmmakers. So I have that with him, and I'm fortunate. So wherever Bond goes, it will go," he stated.
The Henry Cavill Factor
While Brolin's Bond dreams were derailed in the 1980s, another actor has captured fans' imagination as the ideal successor to Daniel Craig. Henry Cavill has emerged as a frontrunner for the role, bringing impressive credentials from his spy-themed performances.
Cavill's resume includes standout roles in The Man From U.N.C.L.E., where he demonstrated the suave sophistication essential to Bond, and The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare, portraying a character that served as inspiration for Ian Fleming's original 007. His recent turn in Argylle further showcased his ability to blend action with the wit and charm that define the Bond character.
The British actor previously came close to landing the role in Casino Royale before Daniel Craig was ultimately chosen. With his combination of physical presence, acting range, and genuine understanding of the source material, Cavill represents everything fans want in a modern Bond.