Tom Holland finally sets the record straight on becoming the next James Bond

If you spend any amount of time trawling British movie gossip, you already know Tom Holland's name pops up on practically every 'Who'll Be The Next James Bond?' shortlist. Now, the Spider-Man star has actually addressed the 007 chatter directly, and it makes for a pretty honest (and, frankly, refreshingly awkward) little interview.

Does Tom Holland Fancy Himself as Bond?

Asked point-blank if he'd want to put on the tux once Daniel Craig's shaken his last martini, Holland told Esquire – in their July/August issue – that it's not exactly a mad idea:

'I mean, of course, I'm young and British, and, you know, I've always been a huge fan of espionage movies. I've grown up with all of the Bond films, and I remember going to see Casino Royale for my birthday.'

Doesn't get more straight from the horse's mouth than that, does it? He's got the British passport. He's got the post-pub Bond marathon memories. He's even got the youthful energy that, let's be honest, the franchise could use after a couple of decades of Craig's steely jaw.

Hang on Though, There's a Bit of a Sticky Point

This is where things get just a little bit awkward. Holland pointed out that Amy Pascal – a big-deal Hollywood producer who's been instrumental in his Spider-Man run – is also involved with the Bond franchise. Or as he put it, she's his 'absolute ride or die.' That could complicate things a touch.

Here's how Holland put it:

'The thing I've found really difficult is that Amy Pascal is producing that movie. I am trying to be respectful of my relationship with her and that this is a professional thing. I don't want to overstep in any way.'

Essentially: torn loyalties, industry etiquette, and probably a bit of not wanting to seem like he's schmoozing his way into a job during family dinner. Fair enough.

What Would Make Him Say Yes?

In case there was any lingering uncertainty, when pushed, Holland didn't mince his words:

'I think if you were lucky enough to get that job, like, who am I to turn my nose up at the most iconic British character in modern cinema?'

Translation: If the call ever comes, he won't need to spend too long mulling it over. And honestly, who would?

Where's the Bond Franchise at the Moment?

• Daniel Craig has officially left the building.
• The next Bond outing is cooking at Amazon MGM Studios.
• Denis Villeneuve (of Dune and Blade Runner 2049 fame) is in the director's chair – now that's a bit of a level-up.
• Steven Knight is on screenplay duty.
• Casting? Still under wraps, which helps keep rumour-mills churning.

For now, it's all still up in the air – but let's be honest, there's no universe where Tom Holland being up for Bond doesn't keep the conversation going.