The race to become James Bond is reportedly entering its decisive stage, with Amazon MGM Studios reportedly preparing to put a select group of actors through the final round of auditions for the iconic 007 role.
According to recent reports, screen tests are expected to take place in London over the coming days, with Callum Turner (Eternity) and Jack Lowden (Slow Horses) among those being considered. Josh O'Connor (Challengers) has also since emerged as a possible contender.
Has the New James Bond Been Confirmed?
Neither Amazon MGM Studios nor the actors' representatives have confirmed the rumored shortlist, leaving fans to speculate about who could ultimately inherit the license to kill.
The latest developments follow months of rumors linking various performers to the part. Lowden and Turner have both been discussed extensively, while Jacob Elordi (Euphoria) and Jack O'Connell (Sinners) were previously linked to the role. However, these new reports indicate that neither is expected to participate in the final screen tests.
Related: Amazon MGM's James Bond Reboot Will Have at Least Three New Actors Playing 007
The hunt for the next Bond is being overseen by casting director Nina Gold, who was announced as leading the search earlier this year.
Amazon MGM has remained tight-lipped about the proceedings, previously stating that it would share further information with fans when the time was right.
Producer Amy Pascal (Spider-Man: Brand New Day) has nevertheless offered an indication of when the public might learn the outcome. Speaking to Deadline in August, she suggested that an announcement before the end of 2026 was a reasonable expectation.
“I would say the end of the year is a good bet. We are being really, really methodical,” she said, adding that the new Bond must offer something distinctive.
Whoever secures the role will lead a new chapter for the franchise following Daniel Craig's final appearance in No Time to Die (2021). Craig played Bond across five films, beginning with Casino Royale (2006), and his departure left the door open for a new interpretation of the character.
The new Bond film is being directed by Denis Villeneuve (Dune), with Steven Knight, creator of Peaky Blinders, writing the screenplay.
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