Tom Hiddleston has admitted it would be an "extraordinary opportunity" to be offered the part of James Bond.
The ‘Avengers’ actor is one of many stars who have been linked with the coveted role of the suave spy – who is currently played by Daniel Craig – and has put himself firmly in contention for the part by admitting he loves everything about the film franchise.
He said: "Time magazine ran a poll and there were, like, 100 actors on the list, including Angelina Jolie. But, yes, it’s nice to be included in the 100. I’m a huge fan of the series.
"We all went to see ‘Spectre’ when we were shooting ‘Skull Island’ in Hawaii. I simply love the theme tune, the tropes and the mythology. I love the whole thing. If it ever came knocking, it would be an extraordinary opportunity."
The 35-year-old star also admitted he has already thought about the physical aspect of the role of 007 and it hasn’t put him off wanting to portray the character on the big screen.
He added to The Sunday Times newspaper: "I’m very aware of the physicality of the job. I would not take it lightly."
Following Hiddleston’s comments, bookmaker William Hill has slashed odds on him taking over from Craig to 10/1 from 25/1.
Despite being interested in the part, Hiddleston is still an outsider in the betting with ‘Legend’ actor Tom Hardy currently 6/5 favourite.
He is followed by Homeland’s Damian Lewis and ‘Luther’ star Idris Elba, who are both 5/1, while Aidan Turner – who plays KÃli in ‘The Hobbit’ movies – is 11/2.
There has been speculation aplenty that last year’s ‘Spectre’ film would be Craig’s fourth and final time portraying Bond.
The star recently threw his 007 future in doubt when he signed up for 20-episode US TV series ‘Purity’, and last year he said he would "rather slash [his] wrists" than portray the spy again.
While his representative last month denied the actor has quit the role, ‘Grimsby’ star Mark Strong appeared to confirm Craig will not be back as Bond.
He said: "I’d have loved to have played the villain in a Bond movie while Daniel was doing it because he’s a pal and that would have been great.
"But I think he’s come to the end of his Bond time and so it’s probably never going to happen, but that would have always been great."
Tom Hiddleston: Bond would be ‘extraordinary opportunity’
