Roger Moore Blames Translation After Facing Backlash For ‘Racist’ Comments On Black Actors Playing James Bond

Sir Roger Moore, who played James Bond in seven films during the 70s and 80s, denies saying anything racist when asked if he thought Idris Elba would make a good Bond.

Roger Moore ‘Racist’ On Idris Elba?

“A few years ago, I said that Cuba Gooding Jr. would make an excellent Bond, but it was a joke! Although James may have been played by a Scot, a Welshman and an Irishman, I think he should be English-English,” Moore told Paris Match when asked about Elba’s Bond potential, according to the Daily Mail.

“Nevertheless, it’s an interesting idea, but unrealistic,” Moore reportedly added.

With the implication that Elba, who was born in London just like Moore, wasn’t “English-English,” Moore received ample backlash on Twitter.

In response to the backlash, Moore took to Twitter himself to claim that there was a misunderstanding. “An interview I gave to Paris Match implies I said something racist about Idris Elba. That is simply untrue. #Lost in translation,” he tweeted.

With Daniel Craig suggesting that he’s ready to move on from playing the super spy, Elba has emerged as a favorite to take on the job. Elba has said that he’d be honored to play the iconic role and has even received former Bond Pierce Brosnan‘s blessing.