Quick Read
- Richard Madden’s lesser-known series Medici: Masters of Florence is a current streaming hit on Apple TV Store.
- Madden played John Reid in the acclaimed Elton John biopic Rocketman, which grossed $195 million worldwide.
- He is a leading contender for the next James Bond, especially with his upcoming role in Netflix’s Trinity.
Richard Madden has become a name that quietly persists at the heart of pop culture conversations. Nine years after his pivotal role as Robb Stark in Game of Thrones, Madden’s career trajectory reveals more than just the shadows of past glory. In 2025, his journey is marked by streaming triumphs, high-profile film roles, and growing speculation about his future as James Bond.
While Game of Thrones itself may have faded in the public imagination due to its controversial final seasons, Madden’s performance remains one of its enduring legacies. He didn’t just leave Westeros behind; he stepped into a range of diverse roles that have shaped his reputation far beyond the fantasy genre.
Take Medici: Masters of Florence, for instance. Released in 2016, the historical drama didn’t make much noise among critics—earning just a 50% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and facing skepticism for its melodramatic approach to Renaissance intrigue. Yet, viewers saw something different: a compelling, underrated series anchored by Madden’s portrayal of Cosimo de’ Medici. The show’s recent surge in Apple TV Store rentals, as reported by ComicBook.com, points to a grassroots appreciation that outpaces its initial reception. Audience reviews praise Madden’s ability to immerse viewers in the political and artistic splendor of Florence, with many calling it a “must watch” and lauding his “extraordinary casting.”
Madden’s versatility isn’t limited to historical drama. In Rocketman, the biographical musical about Elton John, he took on the role of John Reid, Elton’s manager and a crucial figure in the singer’s tumultuous rise. The film, released in 2019, became a box office success, grossing $195.2 million globally on a modest $40 million budget. Directed by Dexter Fletcher, Rocketman was praised for its energetic storytelling and emotional resonance—qualities echoed in Madden’s nuanced performance as Reid. Reviewers, including those cited by SSBCrack News, highlighted the film’s dazzling visuals and strong ensemble, with Madden’s presence adding complexity to the central narrative. The film continues to reach new audiences, airing on major networks like Channel 4, as noted by TV Guide.
But perhaps the most intriguing chapter in Madden’s career is unfolding now. With the Netflix thriller Trinity set for release in 2026, Madden is once again at the forefront of speculation about the next James Bond. His breakout role in Bodyguard (2018) established him as a charismatic action star, and his performance in Trinity as Webb Preston, the Defense Secretary, is anticipated to showcase the blend of charm and intensity that has become his hallmark.
Industry watchers, including El-Balad, note that Madden’s name consistently tops discussions for the next 007, especially as director Denis Villeneuve prepares to take the helm of the Bond franchise’s upcoming installment. The legacy of Bond is storied—spanning decades and actors, with each new iteration bringing its own flavor to the world of espionage, gadgets, and intrigue. Madden’s candidacy isn’t without competition, but his body of work positions him as a natural successor, capable of reinvigorating the franchise while honoring its traditions.
Beyond the headlines and speculation, Madden’s career reflects a broader shift in how actors navigate fame in the streaming era. Rather than relying solely on blockbuster films, Madden has built a portfolio that spans genres and platforms—historical dramas, biopics, action series, and superhero films (Eternals). This adaptability has kept him relevant, even as the tastes of audiences and critics evolve.
For fans, Madden’s journey is both a testament to resilience and a lesson in reinvention. The critical divide over projects like Medici—where reviewers saw contrivance but viewers found authenticity—highlights the unpredictable nature of success in the digital age. Similarly, his work in Rocketman and the anticipation surrounding Trinity show how a single actor can become a connective thread through wildly different stories, linking historical drama, musical spectacle, and political intrigue.
As 2025 draws to a close, the conversation about Richard Madden isn’t just about which roles he’ll take next. It’s about the ways in which audience engagement, critical perception, and industry speculation collide to shape the career of an actor who refuses to be defined by a single genre or moment. Whether Madden ultimately steps into the shoes of James Bond, his legacy as a versatile and compelling performer seems assured.
Richard Madden’s continuing ascent offers a case study in modern stardom: a blend of talent, strategic choices, and the unpredictable power of audience reception. As streaming platforms and blockbuster franchises compete for attention, Madden’s ability to move between worlds—historical Florence, musical London, and the high-stakes realm of espionage—may be his greatest asset. The next chapter, whether as Bond or another iconic role, will be watched with anticipation and curiosity by fans and critics alike.