Happy Valley actor James Norton’s presence in the new M&S Christmas advert has evoked a strong response from the public - many of whom believe he should be the next James Bond.

James Norton, known for his roles in Happy Valley, Grantchester, War and Peace, Mr Jones, House of Guinness and House of the Dragon, stars as a disguised Santa in the new M&S Christmas advert.

Amandaland’s Lucy Punch stars as Mrs Claus in the advert called The Home of Christmas and Santa goes undercover to experience Christmas without being recognised.

James’s performance has elicited a positive response from viewers, many of whom are eager for him to be the next James Bond.

placeholder image — James Norton. | Kate Green / Getty Images

Viewers react to James Norton starring in M&S Christmas advert

“This Mr & Mrs Claus needs to be ongoing. Whoever came up with this concept- absolutely novel & brilliant. Excellent casting, brilliant acting - just so different, original, great fun. It's not just a great Christmas Advert, it's an M&S Christmas Advert.” - Jo Davison

“I must put in a complaint… my whole Facebook feed seems to be Mr James Norton and I absolutely cannot get any work done as I feel forced to scroll through just in case I miss anything.” - Natalie Pearce

“You sir need to be our next James Bond please make this happen.” - Sally Ann Tennant

“Please become Future James Bond!!!” - Michaela Münch

“Next James Bond.” - Dorothy Thomas

“Best choice for Mr Bond if there ever was one.” - Jacqui Jennings

“Our New 007 James Bond please.” - Elizabeth Burn

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“This is not just flirty, this is M&S Flirty - and I am so here for it!” - Deborah Anne

“Could watch & listen to this lovely man all day every day thank you M&S for making a 73 yr old dream again.” - Eileen Weston

“Love watching JN. Wish he did 007 too. Lifts my days!” - Yvonne Fulford

“Make a great James Bond.” - Maureen Dix

“OK he just did a cute impish smile that sealed my admiration for him. I love his acting. He is great but I love his genuine personality and humor. Did I mention he is so darn cute!” - Martha Whitaker Walton

“He would be a fantastic James Bond.” - Ann Shepherd

“'Sorry I was late' I was watching M&S adverts....” - Lizzy WP

“Thank you M&S for giving us James for Christmas.” - Maggie Cunningham

“I believe in Santa again now.” - Clair Smith

“It’s a pitch for the James Bond gig.” - Marie Howells

“Oh my! James Norton is reborn! This needs to be carried over every year. I agree with NataliePearce above. He is addictive.” - Christine Riley