IGN FilmForce hears that English actor David Suchet (TV's Hercule Poiro, "Executive Decision", "A Perfect Murder", "The In-Laws") may be in the running for a major role in the next James Bond film, "Casino Royale".

Suchet is an oft-mentioned fan favorite for the role of the villainous Le Chiffre. In the novel, Le Chiffre is a Soviet agent who embezzles and loses money earmarked for Communist operations and must then win it back during a baccarat duel with Bond at the titular casino. Le Chiffre has previously been portrayed by Peter Lorre and Orson Welles.

Then again its just as likely Suchet could be up for one of the other key roles, including MI6 head M which Judi Dench is expected not to reprise due to continuity issues. IGN inquired with Suchet's agent and management reps who both would neither confirm or deny the report.

Thanks to 'Stax'