New York, Jul 20 (IANS): Actor Idris Elba says it is just a rumour that he will be seen playing James Bond in the upcoming film.

Elba has often been suggested as the best non-white actor for the role. At an event here, he was asked whether he ever wants to play the character in the future, reports eonline.com.

"I mean, look, I've said it a million of times: It's a great character and it's an honour to be asked, but it is just a rumour," he said.

Refuting ongoing rumours, Elba said there have been no real conversations regarding him succeeding Daniel Craig in the role.

Over the years, the James Bond spy series has won four Oscars and received 14 additional nominations.

Speaking of the Academy Awards, Elba said that he is thrilled to have recently joined the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences, following the #OscarsSoWhite backlash.

"It's a big, big honour," the star said.

"It is nice to be a part of the Academy, and, you know, big ups to the Academy for making a big push to include people that ordinarily might not be on the list, and here I am.

"So, I think it is great. It means that there is some influence outside the norm for the Academy and it's a good, good change," he added.