Austin Butler Teases James Bond Prospects and Spotted with Fan in New York City

LOS ANGELES / NEW YORK, August 26, 2025 - Hollywood actor Austin Butler weighed in on rumors about him taking over the James Bond mantle and was later seen engaging with a fan during an early-morning stroll in Manhattan.

In an interview with Hits Radio UK, Butler downplayed the likelihood of him stepping into 007’s shoes, declaring that playing James Bond “would be kind of sacrilegious” for an American despite his confidence in mastering accents. Though he did not rule out a villainous turn-“Villain? That would be alright. I’d do that,” he added-the actor insisted that the iconic British spy role “has gotta be somebody who is from [England]”.

Earlier today, Butler was spotted in Midtown Manhattan chatting and taking photographs with a fan, an encounter captured and shared on social media around 1:56 AM ET. The brief interaction underscores the actor’s down-to-earth approach amid swirling industry speculation.

As Bond rumors continue to circulate, Butler’s candid remarks and unexpected sighting in New York mark a busy day for the rising star.