Robert Pattinson and Nicholas Hoult have reportedly auditioned for the role of James Bond, emerging as late contenders for the coveted part. Both British actors, known for their respective roles as Batman and Lex Luthor, are said to have tested for the role in London last month.
Pattinson, who previously collaborated with director Denis Villeneuve on the upcoming "Dune 3," joins a list of actors who have also auditioned for the iconic spy. Among them are Jack Lowden, Callum Turner, and Josh O'Connor.
This news comes as a surprise, especially following recent reports that O'Connor had secured the role. The Crown star was believed to be on the shortlist, with a report in The Sun suggesting he had won the role after successful final negotiations with Amazon MGM Studios. The publication cited a castmate of O'Connor's, who allegedly revealed the news after drinks at a pub.
O'Connor himself had previously described the speculation surrounding his potential casting as "very bizarre" and an "extraordinary pinch me moment," but declined to comment further on the rumors.
According to Ladbrokes odds, Jack Lowden is now considered the front-runner at 4/6, with Callum Turner at 11/4. O'Connor's odds have fallen to 8/1. Lowden has acknowledged the attention but stated his future career aspirations lean towards directing.
Turner has also been a subject of speculation, with reports indicating he recently resigned as a director of a film company he co-founded, potentially freeing him to focus on securing the 007 job. A casting decision by December would allow Amazon MGM Studios to begin filming the next James Bond movie in 2027.