Why Riz Ahmed ‘wants to be’ James Bond: ‘We all wish to be invincible, desirable, decisive’

Riz Ahmed, a 43-year-old British actor, musician, and Oscar winner, has never played or auditioned for the role of James Bond. However, he has brought the character to life in the six-episode comedy-drama series Bait, which he both created and stars in. The story follows Shah Latif, a struggling actor from a West London Pakistani Muslim family, who deeply desires to be the next Bond.

While not technically autobiographical, the similarities between Riz and his character, Shah, are undeniable. Both are deeply insecure and uncomfortable with their own identities. In an interview with SCREEN, Riz broke down his rationale for choosing the Bond character for Bait, explaining that everyone secretly wishes to be invincible, desirable, decisive, and indestructible.

Bond represents alpha manhood, cinematic success, and Britishness, all qualities that Shah feels he lacks. For Riz, Bond is a symbol of the version of himself that he is not, and a way to escape his own insecurities.

Bait delves deeper than typical comedy-drama shows, exploring Shah's psychological and emotional layers as he navigates self-love and acceptance. In an era where stars are pressured to maintain certain images, Riz acknowledges the tension between his true self and the persona he presents. He emphasizes the importance of family, as they see him for who he truly is, despite the pressures to conform.

Bait is now streaming on Amazon Prime Video, starring Sheeba Chaddha, Sajid Hasan, Guz Khan, Aasiya Shah, Weruche Opia, and Ritu Arya.