Josh O'Connor's friends have reportedly claimed that the actor has been offered the role of James Bond. The assertion comes from a castmate who allegedly revealed the news during a pub outing, according to reports.
This alleged revelation follows O'Connor's own statements that he plans to take time out from work in 2027. The 36-year-old actor recently concluded his run in the play "Golden Boy" at the Almeida Theatre in London. One of O'Connor's "Golden Boy" castmates reportedly shared the casting news after several drinks at a Soho pub, The Sun reported.
A source told the outlet that the castmate was "insistent" it was Josh who had been cast as the next Bond, claiming O'Connor had confided in them about securing the role after the play's final performance on Halloween.
O'Connor, known for his role as Prince Charles in "The Crown," has previously downplayed speculation about him taking over the iconic spy franchise from Daniel Craig. When asked about the possibility, he told BBC, "No, no, no. We'll see but I doubt it." He added, "I'm doing something in January, but then yeah, I'm taking some time out." He described the consideration for such a role as "extraordinary" and a "bizarre pinch me moment."
O'Connor's name was not among the reported shortlist of three actors who have recently completed final auditions for the Bond role. This shortlist is rumored to include Jack Lowden, Callum Turner, and potentially Joe Alwyn.
Ladbrokes' latest odds place Jack Lowden as the front-runner, with Callum Turner following. O'Connor's odds have fallen to 8/1. Lowden recently addressed his status as a favorite, telling GQ Hype that while flattering, he believes his future lies more in directing. Turner has reportedly resigned as a director of the film company he co-founded with his wife, Dua Lipa, last August, which some interpret as a focus on securing the 007 job.
Casting the next James Bond by December could allow Amazon MGM Studios to begin filming the subsequent movie in 2027.