Jack Lowden is considered the leading contender for the coveted role of James Bond after participating in the final audition rounds this past weekend. Screen tests were held at Bray Studios, with Lowden, Callum Turner, and an unidentified actor auditioning for the part.
Bookmakers have placed Lowden as the favorite, with odds of 8/11, while Turner has odds of 2/1. Other potential candidates are listed at 16/1. A spokesperson for Ladbrokes told The Sun that Lowden is strongly supported by the public, with Turner appearing as his primary competition.
Speculation about the identity of the mystery auditionee has circulated online, with actor Joe Alwyn frequently mentioned as a possibility. Fans have noted that Alwyn's known connections to casting director Nina Gold could explain his potentially discreet audition process.
The search for Daniel Craig's successor has been ongoing for several years. Producers have indicated that a casting decision is anticipated by the end of the year, with filming for the next installment potentially beginning in 2027. Denis Villeneuve is attached to direct the upcoming film.
Amazon MGM Studios, which now holds the rights to the Bond franchise, acquired Bray Studios in 2024. The studio has been deliberate in its casting process, aiming to find a fresh and compelling take on the iconic spy character.
Previous actors linked to the role include Harris Dickinson and Jack Barton. The official James Bond film series has featured six actors in the titular role: Sean Connery, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan, and Daniel Craig.