Callum Turner, Jack Lowden Among Finalists for Next James Bond Role
Screen tests for the next actor to portray agent 007 are reportedly underway, with multiple British actors in contention.
Callum Turner and Jack Lowden are reportedly among the actors participating in final screen tests this weekend to be cast as the next James Bond.
Sources suggest that between three and five actors have reached the final stages of the audition process. These screen tests are said to include components for stunts, camera presence, and dialogue. Deadline reported that the tests were initially scheduled for early October but were postponed due to scheduling conflicts. Variety noted that Turner and Lowden "appear to be in the mix" to succeed Daniel Craig, who last portrayed the iconic spy in 2021's "No Time to Die."
Other actors previously linked to the role include Aaron Taylor-Johnson, James Norton, and Paul Mescal. Reports indicate that Josh O'Connor, known for his role as Prince Charles in "The Crown" and his upcoming appearance in "Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery," is also a finalist. Actors Jack O'Connell and Jacob Elordi are not thought to be in contention for the role at this stage.
The producers are reportedly looking to cast the next Bond for a film tentatively slated for release in 2028. Denis Villeneuve is expected to direct, with Steven Knight writing the script. Knight confirmed in September that the first draft of the script was completed and expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating he believes the film "is going to be amazing."
Amazon acquired MGM in 2021, gaining distribution rights for the James Bond franchise. The company reportedly paid an additional $20 million for creative control over the future of the character. Barbara Broccoli, Michael G. Wilson, and Tanya Lapointe are producing the film.
Since the character's inception in the film series, only six actors have officially played James Bond: Sean Connery, Roger Moore, George Lazenby, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan, and Daniel Craig. The announcement of Daniel Craig as Bond in 2005 came after a rigorous audition process, during which Henry Cavill was reportedly a strong contender but was deemed too young for the role at the time.