A recently leaked audition tape has revealed just how close actor came to landing the role of James Bond before it ultimately went to .
Cavill, along with actors Tom Hardy and , has been one of the names frequently mentioned in discussions about who will take over the iconic 007 role. James Norton, known for his work in Happy Valley, is also said to be in the running.
Now fans have discovered a video of the Man of Steel star’s audition, and many believe he would have been an ideal choice for the role.
In the clip, Cavill, now 41, sports long hair and a leather jacket, channelling Pierce Brosnan’s suave style from GoldenEye. At the time of his audition, Cavill was just 22 years old.
During the screen test, he delivered the iconic lines, ordering a “vodka martini, shaken not stirred” and introducing himself as “Bond, James Bond”.
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Daniel Craig is known for being the face of James Bond (Image: Getty)
Fans who have only now seen the tape have shared their admiration for his portrayal of the spy, with many expressing that he would have been a fantastic choice for the role.
Martin Campbell, who directed Casino Royale, praised Cavill’s acting skills, telling The Express: “He looked great in the audition. His acting was tremendous.
“And look, if Daniel didn’t exist Henry would have made an excellent Bond. He looked terrific, he was in great physical shape… very handsome, very chiselled. He just looked a little young at that time back then. “
Meanwhile, speculation about the next James Bond continues, and a surprising new contender has emerged. Reports suggest that Scottish actor Stuart Martin has had “serious talks” with Bond producers and is now one of the frontrunners for the role.
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Few people know that Henry Cavill was seriously considered for the role (Image: YouTube)
If Martin is cast, it would be a historic moment, as he would become the first Scotsman to play Bond since ‘s performance in 1983’s Never Say Never Again.
A source told : “Stuart is the name that has been discussed in Bond circles by those in the know. He is in serious contention. No-one will confirm this because Eon goes all out to deny and shy away from anything concerning casting, but it would be an amazing milestone to have a Scottish Bond again.”
Bond fans seem to be excited by the possibility of this unexpected casting choice.
One fan wrote on an online forum: “Stuart Martin caught my eye. He seems to have about the same level of fame as did when he was picked.” Another added: “He’s got the look, that’s for sure.”
A third fan queried: “I don’t know him, which is a plus. And he does look very attractive, which is a plus. What is his action background? Has he filmed action scenes before?”