1.28.2005
Bookies bet on Clive Owen as 007
Oscar-nominated Clive Owen is the new bookies' favorite to become the next James Bond.
Owen's chances received a massive boost after he was nominated as best supporting actor in relationship drama Closer.
So many punters have put money on him to be the next 007 that at one point William Hill stopped taking bets, according to The Sun.
A spokesman for the bookies told the paper: "Owen's nomination sparked a betting frenzy from James Bond fans.
"They feel his heightened global recognition will have done his chances of being the next Bond a world of good."
Owen - star of 1980s TV drama Chancer - recently starred in historical drama King Arthur.
Trainspotting star Ewan McGregor and Australian X-Men actor Hugh Jackman are also in the frame to replace Pierce Brosnan.
Brosnan - credited with revitalising the flagging series - was keen to do a fifth Bond film but producers decided they wanted a new face.
Last Updated: 10:49 UK, Thursday January 27, 2005
