James Norton has said that it is "bizarre and quite flattering" to be linked to the role of James Bond.
The 34-year-old actor is among the bookies' favourites to take over the part of 007 from Daniel Craig, although the Little Women star said that any talk of him landing the part is "pure speculation".
Speaking to The Sunday Times' Culture magazine: "It's crazy. It's not real. It's speculative.
"There is no truth behind it. Unless journalists know something more than I do.
"It's bizarre and quite flattering to be even considered in that world, but beyond that? Pure speculation."
Asked how the public might react to his being cast in the role, he said: "It's really hard, as whatever I say can become a story.
"I don't know how to answer."
He added: "I love the franchise and hope Barbara Broccoli (the Bond producer) continues to make it relevant. Going into the heart of Bond's private world, as opposed to one-liners, is already progress.
"But there is more to be made, so future casting in all roles is going to be important. I don't know how you do that, because I'm not Barbara Broccoli."
Earlier in January, it was reported that bookmaker Ladbrokes had suspended betting on Norton becoming the
Norton is currently appearing in BBC One drama The Trial of Christine Keeler about the Profumo affair.
