David Oyelowo to Be First Black James Bond – in Audiobook

Nigerian-British actor David Oyelowo is set to play James Bond, according to new reports.

Written by Anthony Horowitz and commissioned by the Ian Fleming estate, the movie will not show David Oyelowo but we will hear his voice as 007.

Oyelowo appeared as Henry VI in the Royal Shakespeare Company, a casting decision that was criticised because of the colour of his skin.

A black or ethnic minority actor has yet to take up the mantle of Bond, James Bond, on screen although Idris Elba has long been considered the next candidate for the job which has seen seven actors portray the secret agent. However, it is an official Bond book and a direct invitation from the estate of 007’s creator, Ian Fleming which is a big achievement!

Former Bond star Pierce Brosnan has also tipped Idris for the role, but The Wire actor has expressed concern about being the first “black Bond”.

The Guardian reported on Thursday (August 13th) that the 39 year old was “very honoured” to be offered the role by the Fleming estate itself, describing it as “really special”.

Oyelowo is known for roles in theatre, film, radio and television.

Horowitz said it was “an honour to have an actor as talented as David to read my take on Bond”.

“A titan on screen, he has all the qualities that you’d want in a James Bond”, Oyelowo said.

According to Horowitz, Oyelowo has “a brilliant voice and talent for bringing out the nuances of dialogue and characters”.

Trigger Mortis takes place two weeks after the events of Goldfinger and will be released on September 8 2015.