If latest reports are to be believed, 'Mad Max: Fury Road' actor Tom Hardy could replace Daniel Craig as the next James Bond. In fact, a recent online poll suggested that Hardy is the front-runner for the role of the iconic secret agent.

Quoting Variety, IB Times reports that in a recent statement, online bookmaker BoyleSports' spokesman Liam Glynn said, "The Next James Bond market has certainly come alive with all the support coming in for Tom Hardy, who is now 4/1 from 6/1 to take over from Daniel Craig."

Glynn further said, "With the support showing no signs of drying up, we are expecting Tom Hardy to be the new favorite for the role sooner rather than later, which could result in BoyleSports being hit hard if Hardy lands the role."

In fact, the latest news could prove to be a shocker to fans of actor Idris Elba, who was also pitched for the coveted role. Meanwhile, Elba's hopes of being the new James Bond were also virtually shattered when James Bond author Anthony Horowitz debunked all speculations about the actor playing the role of the English spy, saying that he is "too street."

However, later on, Anthony apologized to Elba on Twitter for his remarks saying, "I'm really sorry my comments about Idris Elba have caused offence."

Aside from Hardy and Elba, a number of other actors are also being considered for the role of James Bond. These actors include Damian Michael Fassbender, Richard Armitage, Orlando Bloom, Dougray Scott, Rupert Friend and Dominic West.

According to some reports, even the Australian actor Hugh Jackman has been considered for the role of James Bond. During a recent interview on an Australian show, Jackman admitted that he was "offered" the role. He said, "I sort of have [been asked]."

Elaborating further, Jackman said, "At the time I was just about to do X-Men 2 and I was like, 'Ah, I don't think it's the right time'." He, however, added that it was not easy for him to say no.

In the meantime, Craig is busy wrapping up the next Bond film 'Spectre,' which is expected to hit theaters on Nov. 26. As per his contract, Craig is scheduled to appear in another Bond flick after 'Spectre.'