Mystery Star Joins James Bond Auditions as Search Continues
Security was visible at Bray Studios as potential candidates for the next 007 undergo screen tests, with the field narrowed to a few contenders.
The search for the next James Bond continued this weekend with screen tests taking place at Bray Studios in Berkshire. A mystery star was seen arriving at the studios on Saturday, accompanied by security, as the selection process narrows down the contenders for the iconic role.
Callum Turner initiated the screen tests on Friday, and he is reportedly one of the final three actors in consideration. He faces competition from "Slow Horses" star Jack Lowden, "The Crown's" Josh O'Connor, and "Wuthering Heights" actor Jacob Elordi. Earlier reports suggested Elordi was no longer in the running, but he remains a possibility.
Security was present to escort a Mercedes from Bray Studios on Saturday afternoon, fueling speculation that it was an actor arriving for an audition. Screen tests are scheduled throughout the weekend, with an estimated three to five actors having reached the final stages of consideration.
A source told the Daily Mail that the process to find Daniel Craig's successor has been ongoing for years, and Callum Turner was given his opportunity to impress the decision-makers on Friday. The following days are expected to be highly significant.
Bray Studios, a historic production facility located on the River Thames, was acquired by Amazon MGM Studios in 2024. This studio has been the site for filming "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" among other productions.
Turner's audition marks a significant step in the nearly decade-long search to replace Daniel Craig as the famous spy. The actor, who married singer Dua Lipa earlier this year, has been a long-standing front-runner for the role.
Scottish actor Jack Lowden and Josh O'Connor, both 36, are more recent additions to the potential list. Jacob Elordi, 29, being in contention may reportedly displease some fans who believe Bond should be portrayed by a British actor, as Elordi is Australian.
Bond producer Amy Pascal indicated in August that a decision was likely by the end of the year, which would allow filming for the next movie to commence in 2027. Denis Villeneuve, the director for the upcoming film, and Amazon bosses confirmed in May that the casting process had begun.
Pascal stated that the studio is proceeding with extreme caution, acknowledging the difficulty of following Daniel Craig's tenure as Bond and emphasizing the need for a