Ben Starr: ‘I’m glad’ Patrick Gibson won Bond role

Ben Starr auditioned for the role of James Bond in the game 007 First Light years ago while he was working on Final Fantasy 16.

He recalled the audition took place in a room with IO Interactive and Eon Productions and described the setting as intimidating. He later said he “crumbled under the pressure” and felt he did not perform well during that session.

Starr expressed relief that he did not get the part and praised Patrick Gibson’s performance in the released game, calling Gibson “unbelievable” and adding he was “so happy” he had not been cast.

Gibson’s portrayal has drawn positive attention, and some fans and industry figures have proposed him for the live-action film role. Co-star Lennie James called Gibson “fantastic” and recommended his inclusion in casting discussions for the movie series.

Starr framed the audition as an early career experience, noting he was a young actor gaining experience in high-pressure casting rooms. He did not speculate on future casting for the film series.