Idris Elba addresses James Bond speculation

LONDON, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- British actor Idris Elba revealed on Twitter he is aware that people are debating whether he would make a good James Bond successor to Daniel Craig.

An email discussing the black TV star's possible casting as secret agent 007 was among the private documents leaked to the media in the recent Sony computer hack attack.

The news sparked the disapproval of conservative American radio star Rush Limbaugh, who said James Bond creator Ian Fleming wrote the character as white and Scottish, and the spy should continue to be played by Caucasian actors.

Elba addressed the speculation Saturday, tweeting: "Isn't 007 supposed to [be] handsome? Glad you think I've got a shot! Happy New year people," alongside a selfie.

Isn't 007 supposed to handsome? Glad you think I've got a shot! Happy New year people. pic.twitter.com/3g9lAl2Uo3

— Idris Elba (@idriselba) December 27, 2014