KUALA LUMPUR: Scottish actor Sam Heughan, best known for starring in The Outlander, is the global fan favourite to fill in the shoes of Daniel Craig once he calls it a day as Agent 007.
Interestingly, Heughan, 40, had previously auditioned to play the suave spy James Bond in 2006, but lost out to Craig.
Entertainment portal AsiaOne reported yesterday that British entertainment portal RadioTimes.com recently conducted a poll of almost 80,000 fans around the world, and 30 per cent of voters backed Heughan to take over as 007.
RadioTimes.com editorial director Tim Glanfield, who conducted the survey, said: "Sam is clearly popular with fans, and this victory solidifies his position as one of the favourites for this most coveted of film roles.
"With a host of incredible talent in the frame to take over from Daniel Craig, Sam has some stiff competition – but this big vote of confidence will be something for Bond 26 producers to consider."
Legend actor Tom Hardy came a distant second on the list with 14 per cent of the votes, while Man Of Steel star Henry Cavill made to the third spot with 11 per cent.
The survey saw Idris Elba take fourth place with 10 per cent of the votes, and Thor star Tom Hiddleston rounded out the top five with five per cent.
Heughan previously admitted that playing Bond would be his "dream role".
He said: "It's a dream for every actor. I auditioned for it back when they were doing Bond 21 when Daniel Craig was cast in Casino Royale and I think a lot of actors were seen in the UK."