Henry Cavill, the actor best known for his roles in The Witcher and Man of Steel, recently gave a refreshingly candid take on the possibility of taking over the iconic role of James Bond. For years, fans have speculated about who could be the next 007, with Cavill’s name frequently appearing in the mix. However, in a recent interview, Cavill admitted that he wasn’t sure if he was the right fit for the role anymore, citing his age as a potential obstacle.

“I have no idea. All I’ve got to go off is the rumors. The same information you have. Maybe I’m too old now, maybe I’m not. It’s up to Barbara Broccoli and Mike Wilson and we’ll see what their plans are,” Cavill said, leaving the door open for speculation but acknowledging the decision is out of his hands.

At 41 years old, Cavill is no stranger to playing larger-than-life action heroes. He’s already proven his action chops with roles in Mission: Impossible – Fallout and The Witcher. However, as he pointed out, the typical Bond contract involves at least three films, meaning an actor who takes the role now might find themselves portraying 007 into their 50s—an age that might not be ideal for the type of physical demands and international intrigue that define the Bond franchise.

Despite his apparent hesitation, Cavill’s comments offer a unique perspective on the age factor when it comes to playing Bond. Traditionally, actors who have played 007 have been younger, with Daniel Craig notably being one of the older actors to don the tuxedo. But age is only one consideration when it comes to casting a new Bond. Cavill’s versatility, especially his more comedic and nuanced performances, suggests that the character of Bond could take on new dimensions if given the right direction.

Indeed, Cavill’s role in The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare, where he flexed his comedic muscles, demonstrated his ability to play a more multifaceted character. If Cavill were to step into Bond’s shoes, his wit and charm might bring a refreshing twist to the secret agent, allowing for a broader range of storytelling possibilities. The one-note action hero that Bond is often known for might evolve into someone with more layers, thanks to Cavill’s depth as an actor.

While the age factor is certainly worth considering, it isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker. Cavill’s physicality and charisma would still serve him well in the role, and audiences have shown time and time again that they are drawn to actors who can combine strength with vulnerability. Still, Cavill is right to be cautious—taking on a role as iconic as Bond is no small task, and the filmmakers will want to ensure they pick an actor who can carry the weight of 007 for years to come.

Ultimately, the decision will rest with Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, the producers who oversee the Bond franchise. For now, Cavill remains a popular choice, but whether he’s too old or just the right fit for the next era of 007 remains to be seen.