Technically, the first actor to embody the iconic secret agent was American, which tends to go unmentioned. California native Barry Nelson played Bond in the 1954 television adaptation of Casino Royale, which remains the one and only time an actor from outside the borders mentioned above has been given a shot.

What does a James Bond movie directed by Denis Villeneuve look like? That has become a significant question for 007 fans in recent days, as the acclaimed filmmaker behind Blade Runner 2049, Dune, and Dune: Part Two has signed a deal that will see him helm the first film in the post-Daniel Craig era of the superspy franchise.

Lately, the James Bond franchise has gone through some major changes, especially with the departure of Daniel Craig, who brought a new kind of depth to the character. With Denis Villeneuve now chosen to direct the next spy film,