Hartley, 42, is a popular star of the small screen after becoming part of the phenomenally successful drama series. He also formerly appeared in Smallville, The Young and the Restless and Revenge. His name has been knocked around as a potential successor to Daniel Craig in the James Bond movies – and he spoke about it, albeit briefly, on Ellen DeGeneres’ chatshow yesterday.
When DeGeneres informed him of a rumour that his name is “on a list”, he said: “Cool! Yeah, I would do [it].”
However, when DeGeneres highlighted that he would be a good choice for the role, he jokily referenced a faked nearly-nude photo that she had shown viewers just moments before.
“That was before you showed that photo, now it’s trending the other way!” he quipped.
Hartley then did a funny mock audition, in which he drank one of Bond’s signature Martinis. Watch the full video below.
Currently Hartley has odds of 10/1 with UniBet, putting him ahead of contenders such as Michael Fassbender (20/1), Henry Cavill (25/1) and Will Poulter (33/1).
The favourite with most bookmakers is Tom Hiddleston on 5/2 with Ladbrokes.
Richard Madden follows on 3/1, with James Norton on 4/1 and Idris Elba on 5/1.
Before any new James Bonds are enlisted, there’s still the small matter of Daniel Craig’s final outing as the iconic spy.
