I was never offered James Bond role: Clive Owen

London: Actor Clive Owen has revealed that he was never offered the role of James Bond, despite being heavily linked to the series for several years.

The 'Knick' star suggested that it was his role in crime thriller 'Croupier' that helped kick-start his career and put him in people's minds for 007, reportedly.

"If I hadn't worn that tux in Croupier, I'd still be begging for the parts on cop shows Robson Green turned down!" he said.
Owen was rumoured for the Bond role prior to Daniel Craig's casting in 'Casino Royale', but reports at the time said that he was turned down after demanding box office profit points in his contract.

"It's easy to keep saying no to a role you're not being offered. Am I going to be the next Sean Connery? No, I'll just be the next Clive Owen," he said.