James Bond: THIS star is now a ‘leading contender’ to replace Daniel Craig, bookies say

Daniel Craig is believed to be stepping down from the role once he’s finished with the upcoming, as-yet-untitled 25th entry in the franchise.

Richard Madden has long been the bookies’ favourite to take over, but it seems there’s more attention once again on Cillian Murphy.

The actor is well-known for his work in TV smash Peaky Blinders, which released a new trailer earlier this week.

He’s now the fourth favourite at 6/1 with bookmakers Coral, sandwiched between Idris Elba and James Norton.

A spokesperson for the firm said: “Today’s excitement at the new Peaky Blinder trailer has seen some interest in the betting for Cillian Murphy to be the next 007 and he’s a leading contender in our book to replace Craig.”

Tom Hiddleston is slightly behind Madden on 4/1, while Elba is on 5/1, Norton and Tom Hardy are on 7/1 and Damian Lewis is on 10/1.

Benedict Cumberbatch shares 10/1 odds, while Poldark’s Aidan Turner is on 12/1 and Henry Cavill is on 16/1.

Interestingly, the likes of Jack Lowden – who is on 12/1 with several other firms, does not rank on Coral’s top tier of candidates.

Bond 25, meanwhile, has been continuing production in the Scottish highlands, with a fast-paced stunt seen being shot over the weekend.

It’s also been said that he’s in support of Ed Sheeran recording the theme song for the blockbuster; one of the most iconic jobs for musicians in Hollywood.

“Daniel was introduced to Ed’s music by his daughter Ella,” a source told the Sunday Mirror.

“She loves Ed, and Daniel now really likes his stuff too and wants Ed for the theme tune.”

They added: “There was talk of Adele doing it again as her song was such a major hit, but Ed is under serious consideration.

“Daniel is not just the lead actor on the movie but also one of the producers, so he has huge sway over every aspect.

“The sticking point is that Ed translates more to a younger generation, while Adele was more across all ages – so there are other artists they’re also looking at.”

James Bond 25 is out in April 2020.