Barry Keoghan reveals dream James Bond role and it’s not 007

Barry Keoghan has revealed he would love to enter the world of James Bond, but not as the iconic spy. Instead, the actor says he has his eyes on becoming the franchise’s next villain.

The Irish actor made the comment while promoting Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man alongside Cillian Murphy, immediately sparking speculation about whether he could appear in the next instalment of the legendary spy franchise.

When asked if he would ever play James Bond, Barry Keoghan admitted the hero role does not interest him as much as its darker counterpart.

“I don’t think I’d play Bond,” Keoghan said. “It’s such a role that requires you to know certain things… I’d like to come in and do the villain.”

Why fans think Keoghan could appear in the next Bond film

Keoghan’s comment has drawn extra attention because Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight is currently writing the next Bond film.

That connection has fuelled speculation that the actor could potentially enter the 007 universe if Knight brings familiar collaborators into the project.

Murphy even joked during the interview that Keoghan’s answer sounded like “a headline right there”.

Cillian Murphy personally asked Keoghan to join Peaky Blinders film

The two actors are currently promoting Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man, which continues the story of the hit crime drama.

Murphy revealed that he personally reached out to Keoghan to join the film, sending him a Father’s Day message asking if he wanted to play his son.

The actor said Keoghan was the only choice for the role and praised his talent and intensity.

The pair previously worked together in Dunkirk and have remained in touch since.

Returning to the Peaky Blinders world

Murphy also spoke about returning to the story after the television series ended.

He said the film continues the show’s central theme of family and serves as a meaningful continuation for longtime fans.

The sixth season of Peaky Blinders ended on an ambiguous note, but Murphy said the team had always hoped to expand the story into a film.

When and where to watch the Peaky Blinders film

Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man is currently playing in select theatres and will begin streaming on Netflix on March 20.