James Bond fans stumped as star looks unrecognisable 19 years after playing iconic villain

A James Bond star looked unrecognisable almost 20 years after he played the main antagonist in Casino Royale. Danish film star Mads Mikkelsen starred as the iconic Le Chiffre in the 2006 spy flick opposite Daniel Craig. His character was known for his slick black hair and distinguishing scarred left eye that wept blood. However, Mads was recently spotted at a Thai street food restaurant and shocked online followers with his unexpected visit. The 59-year-old visited the food restaurant in Leeds, where a staff member uploaded a photo of the actor posing with him. Unlike his appearance in Casino Royale, Mads sported a more laid-back look and a beard.

A staff member wrote on Instagram: "A huge thank you to the brilliant Mads Mikkelsen for visiting Zaap Leeds this weekend! An incredible actor and an even kinder man, it was a pleasure to welcome you. From Fantastic Beasts to 007, and now to ZAAP Thai - a man of great taste! We're honoured you chose to dine with us. Hope to see you again soon, Mads!"

Many fans have flocked to the comments section to react to the encounter. One person said, "This is the best!!!" as a second also commented, "Legendary actor." A third also typed: "JEALOUS," with a shocked face emoji.

A fourth also chimed in: "WHATTTT," and a fifth follower similarly wrote online: "How am I only just finding out about this NOW?!" [sic]

Meanwhile, speculation over who will replace Daniel Craig as James Bond in the next film is reaching fever pitch. It has been confirmed that Denis Villeneuve will direct the next 007 film. The celebrated filmmaker is known for his visionary work on Dune, Blade Runner 2049, Sicario, and Prisoners.

28 Years Later actor Aaron Taylor-Johnson has often been at the top of conversations surrounding the next James Bond, but there is still no confirmation of who will replace Craig.

Aaron recently teased fans about a new project during a film premiere. The 35-year-old insisted that he "can't talk" about his next film project when he was quizzed on the red carpet of a new zombie flick.

When he was interviewed by Deadline at the movie premiere of 28 Years Later, he said, "I can't talk about it." The actor, from Somerset, was already being led away down the red carpet when the question was asked. Earlier this year, fans were convinced that Aaron was the next 007 after he shared a snap of himself on Instagram wearing Bond's signature OMEGA wristwatch.

The post's caption read, "OMEGA welcomes Aaron Taylor-Johnson to our watchmaking home in Bienne. The actor and Golden Globe winner stepped into our watchmaking home for an exclusive tour, meeting the watchmakers behind our timepieces."

One person who left a comment said, "Bro has to be the new James Bond at this point", whilst a second also echoed, "Do I hear the 007 theme?"