Luke Evans has spoken enthusiastically about the prospect of playing Bond, saying he would "jump at the chance" to take on the iconic role.

Evans, 42, known for his roles in The Hobbit and the Fast & Furious movies, would be only the second Welshman to portray 007 after Timothy Dalton, whom we recently made our British Icon of the Week.

"I think I’ve cut my teeth very well in movies I’ve done and I’ve enjoyed every second of it. It’s a phenomenal job, a phenomenal franchise, an incredible role," Evans told The Mirror. "I have to say though, it’s a daunting task for any actor to play the role after Daniel Craig. No one knows what’s happening. It’s a very secretive process and it’s a wonderful role. I would jump at the chance, as would many actors in my position, so we shall see."

Of course, Evans is hardly the only big name to be linked to the prestigious role. Back in October, we published a guide to 11 actors predicted to become the next James Bond, including Tom Hardy, Tom Hiddleston, Daniel Kaluuya, Sam Heughan, and Cillian Murphy.

Clearly aware of the stiff competition, Evans added magnanimously: "It will be an exciting casting moment for the Bond production and I wish whoever gets it the best of luck.”

Idris Elba, long considered to be a contender too, recently revealed that his mum is still convinced he'll get to play 007 at some point in the future.

In the meantime, Daniel Craig's last outing as Bond, No Time to Die, is now scheduled for a fall release following several delays due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

Can you see Luke Evans as 007?