Superstar Pierce Brosnan believes he could reprise blockbuster James Bond role ‘in a pinch’

It’s a question for our turbulent times and one that has generated much discussion online. But ever since Daniel Craig handed in his license to kill, James Bond producers are yet to name a worthy successor.

Ever since it was announced that Amazon Studios were taking over the franchise, a number of actors have been rumoured to be in the running to play Bond, including Idris Elba, Michael Fassbender and Tom Hardy.

But a surprise contender may be a former Bond himself, after Irish star Pierce Brosnan admitted he could possibly reprise the role as “there’s great things you can do with AI.”

The 71-year-old star made the announcement on the US Today show, saying he thought he “could get away with” playing Bond again, “in a pinch.”

“I mean, there’s great things you can do with AI as well, so there you have it. I’m quite content the way it is” he said.

Although there’s no official word from Amazon, the Die Another Day star said it won’t be hard for them to track him down if they wanted him to come back.

“Let’s see where the wind takes us. Let’s see what happens,” he said.

“They know where to find me.”

Brosnan’s portrayal of the British spy revived the franchise, helping to turn 1995’s Goldeneye into a global hit which made over $560 million (US $356 million) at the box office.

The Mamma Mia star has spoken fondly of his time as Bond and is “very proud to have been part of the history and the legacy of Bond and the movies that I made with Barbara and Michael.”

He was not surprised when longtime owners Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson sold the franchise but thought that the decision was right for them.

“It takes great courage for them to let go. They will still have a say in matters,” he said.

“I hope that (Amazon) handles the work and the character with dignity and imagination and respect.”