Next James Bond Search Reaches Final Stage as Three British Actors Emerge as Contenders
Final screen tests for the next James Bond are reported to start this week, with Jack Lowden, Callum Turner and Josh O'Connor named and Jacob Elordi out. Here is what is confirmed and what is still only reported.
The search for the next James Bond appears to be nearing its conclusion, with three British actors reportedly among those being considered for the final round of auditions. After years of speculation over who might succeed Daniel Craig, the casting process is approaching one of its most important stages.
Jack Lowden, Callum Turner and Josh O’Connor have all been linked to screen tests that could begin on Friday 23 October and continue into next week. At least four actors are understood to have received offers to test, although the complete line-up has not been confirmed.
The reports suggest Amazon MGM Studios is getting closer to choosing the actor who will lead the next chapter of the long-running spy franchise.
Who Could Become the Next James Bond?
Jack Lowden has become an increasingly prominent name in the Bond conversation, particularly following his success as River Cartwright in Apple TV’s Slow Horses. His character is an MI5 agent who frequently finds himself caught up in dangerous situations, giving audiences a glimpse of Lowden in an espionage setting.
Callum Turner is another strong contender. The British actor has appeared in Fantastic Beasts and the Second World War drama Masters of the Air, while his name has been associated with Bond speculation throughout 2026.
Josh O’Connor has emerged as a potentially surprising addition to the reported final group. Known for portraying Prince Charles in The Crown, he has also starred in Challengers and Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, demonstrating his range across very different productions.
While all three names feature in the latest reports, there is still some uncertainty surrounding the final shortlist. Variety has independently identified Lowden and Turner as possible contenders, while other industry publications have also named O’Connor.
What Happens During the Final Bond Auditions?
The upcoming screen tests are reportedly expected to take place in London, assessing the actors across three areas: stunt work, camera presence and dialogue.
These are particularly important qualities for James Bond, a character whose appeal has traditionally combined physical action with sharp dialogue and an unmistakable screen presence.
The auditions had reportedly been planned for earlier in October before scheduling difficulties pushed them back.
Casting director Nina Gold is overseeing the search, working alongside the film’s creative team to find a successor to Daniel Craig.
Two actors previously linked to the role now appear unlikely to be involved. Jacob Elordi, known for Euphoria, is reportedly not participating in the final tests, while Sinners actor Jack O’Connell is also understood to be outside the current group.
A New Era for James Bond
The next Bond film will be directed by Denis Villeneuve, whose previous work includes Dune and Blade Runner 2049. Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight is writing the screenplay, with Amy Pascal and David Heyman producing.
It will be the first instalment developed under Amazon MGM Studios’ creative control following the agreement reached with long-standing franchise custodians Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson in 2025.
The production represents a significant moment for Bond, with a new leading actor and creative team preparing to establish the franchise’s direction following Craig’s departure.
Craig first appeared as 007 in Casino Royale in 2006 and went on to star in five films, concluding his run with No Time to Die in 2021.
When Will the New James Bond Be Announced?
Although the final casting process appears to be progressing, Amazon MGM Studios has not announced when the next Bond will be revealed.
Producer Amy Pascal previously indicated that an announcement before the end of 2026 was a reasonable expectation, while emphasising the importance of taking a careful approach to replacing Craig.
There is also no officially confirmed release date for the next film, although reports have suggested a possible 2028 arrival.
For now, Lowden, Turner and O’Connor remain reported contenders rather than confirmed finalists. With screen tests expected to take place over the coming days, the search for cinema’s next 007 may finally be approaching its conclusion.
