James Bond: Tom Hardy and Idris Elba could be BETTER bets than James Norton for new 007

Over the months (and years), Hardy has topped bookies’ list to replace Craig on several occasions, while Elba’s name cropped up as a popular — if highly debated — outsider last year.

Alex Apati of Ladbrokes told Express.co.uk said it was worth noting fans’ interest in Norton has only come around in the last four-five months in comparison to Hardy and Elba’s enduring presence in the running.

The bookies revealed that, between them, Elba and Hardy make up a whopping 31 per cent of all total bets placed on the next Bond with the company.

Apati said the bookies weren’t surprised by Hardy and Elba’s dominance in the betting due to them being two of the biggest names being thrown around to replace Craig.