Do We Really Need A Black James Bond?

Idris Elba

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Should the superspy of literature and big-screen fame be race-neutral?

Every time a new James Bond flick comes out, a debate about who would be a better Bond comes with it. It doesn't matter how good of a job the current actor is doing, critics and viewers always enjoy talking up who they think should be the new Bond when they get tired of looking at the one in front of them.

Since its inception, every actor that has played the British spy has been of direct European decent being born in either Scotland, Ireland or England. But as the world grows closer and closer to the idea of a "post-racial" society, there's been a multitude of voices entertaining the idea of have a black actor play the coveted role.

The biggest voice came in 2008 when multi-tasking mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs let it be known that he wanted to be the next and first black James Bond when he heard there was an opening. Not only did he let it be known, he made a cologne commercial/audition tape to plead his case.

Obviously, the tape failed as Daniel Craig was selected to be the new Bond.

Since then Idris Elba's name has been thrown around as a possible future James Bond. Being that Elba is British and already has a popular gig as a detective on BBC's "Luther," perhaps he may actually have a shot. But even if he does, is such a change in role really needed?

While it sounds like a cool idea or some sort of way to see past race, what's actually wrong with keeping James Bond, well, white? Are Hispanics clamoring to become the next Blade? Are white actors demanding that there be a Caucasian Storm from X-Men?

But, if we must have a black James Bond, here are some ideal candidates:

Idris Elba

Everyone's favorite and the most likely choice if a black Bond ever comes to exist. He's shown that he can appeal to both the British and Americans, and he has been a leading man in a film before.

Chiwetel Ejiofor

Pretty much everyone's second favorite Black British actor, Ejiofor has proven that he can handle just about any role that's been thrown at him. His on-screen chemistry with the ladies and his fighting prowess may still be up for question though.

Djimon Hounsou

Supermodel-turned-actor, Hounsou's commanding presence could make him a perfect Bond.