[Updated with Author’s Apology] Is Idris Elba ‘Too Street’ to Play James Bond? The New 007 Author Seems to Think So

Earlier this year, former James Bond actor Roger Moore landed himself in hot water after expressing that Idris Elba shouldn’t play the British Secret Service agent because he isn’t “English-English,” and now new 007 author Anthony Horowitz has found himself in a similar controversy after stating that Idris is probably “too street” to play the famed character.

In an interview with The Daily Mail, Horowitz said the following:

“Idris Elba is a terrific actor, but I can think of other black actors who would do it better. For me, Idris Elba is a bit too rough to play the part. It’s not a colour issue. I think he is probably a bit too ‘street’ for Bond. Is it a question of being suave? Yeah.”

A black actor he thinks would be wonderful in the role? Adrian Lester.

Thoughts?

Update: Horowitz has apologized for his poor word choice.