Cillian Murphy is reportedly in contention to inherit the iconic role of James Bond from Daniel Craig.

The 47-year-old actor has garnered widespread praise for his performance in the blockbuster “Oppenheimer” and is a frontrunner to win the Best Actor award at the upcoming Oscars.

According to The Sun, Murphy’s compelling portrayal in the film has captured the attention of Bond producers who are still in search of Daniel Craig’s successor. A source remarked, “Cillian is the toast of Hollywood right now, and this would be the ultimate role. This is a way to elevate the Bond franchise with an actor who is at the very top of his game.”

Producer Barbara Broccoli is reportedly closely monitoring Murphy’s career, with speculation that discussions about his potential involvement in the 26th Bond film have begun.

Despite the buzz, there is ample time for deliberation as production on the next Bond installment is not expected to commence until late next year.

Murphy’s co-star in “Oppenheimer,” Clay Bunker, endorsed the idea of the Irish actor stepping into the shoes of 007, highlighting Murphy’s ability to portray the dark facets of the character. Bunker noted, “He would fare beautifully… Cillian has that ability to tap into that [darkness].”

Daniel Craig, who portrayed Bond in five films from “Casino Royale” in 2005 to “No Time To Die” in 2021, has concluded his tenure as the iconic spy.

Recently, Murphy won the Best Actor BAFTA for his role in “Oppenheimer” and took the opportunity to express gratitude to his family and colleagues during his acceptance speech. He dedicated the award to his wife, Yvonne McGuinness, and their sons, Malachy and Aran, acknowledging their unwavering support throughout his career.

In addition to his family, Murphy extended thanks to director Christopher Nolan and producer Emma Thomas, emphasizing their collaborative efforts and their pursuit of excellence. He also praised his fellow nominees and reflected on the privilege of portraying complex characters like J. Robert Oppenheimer.

As Murphy continues to captivate audiences with his performances, speculation surrounding his potential portrayal of James Bond only adds to the excitement surrounding his career.