James Bond: Tom Hardy LEAPFROGGED by rival in race to replace Daniel Craig

However, 40 per cent of all bets in the last seven days have still be placed on Hardy.

James Norton is still the hot favourite to be named the new Bond, priced at 2/1.

A close second place is Outlander’s Sam Heughan at 3/1, while Tom Hiddleston is holding on to his position on 5/1.

After seeing his popularity wane in recent weeks, Game of Thrones actor Richard Madden has slipped down the list a couple of places and is now on an equal footing with the Poldark actor.

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