Amazon MGM Studios has officially narrowed its search for the next James Bond to four actors. This brings preparations for the franchise’s 26th installment closer to a final decision. Industry sources report that the remaining candidates will undergo screen tests in London. This moves the multi-year casting process into its final phase following Daniel Craig’s departure after 2021’s No Time to Die.
The Final Shortlist: Who Is in the Running?
Reports from Deadline and other industry outlets identify three of the four actors participating in the upcoming screen tests. The final group includes:
- Jack Lowden: A BAFTA Award-winning Scottish actor known for his work in Apple TV+’s espionage series Slow Horses. Casting speculation grew after his co-star, Gary Oldman, hinted that a choice may have been made.
- Callum Turner: Favored by betting odds as a frontrunner, Turner has built a strong cinematic profile with roles in projects like Eternity and One Night Only.
- Josh O’Connor: A critically acclaimed performer who played Patrick Zweig in Challengers and takes on roles in features like Rian Johnson’s Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery.
- An Unidentified Fourth Candidate: A fourth mystery actor is in the screen test lineup, though Amazon MGM Studios keeps their identity confidential.
Long-rumored fan favorites, such as Jacob Elordi and Jack O’Connell, are out of the running as the studio refines its creative direction.
Creative Vision and Leadership for Bond 26
The search for Daniel Craig’s successor began under casting director Nina Gold. Studio executives prioritized finding a younger actor capable of a long-term commitment. They want an actor who can anchor the spy franchise across three or four films rather than casting an established megastar.
Behind the camera, Denis Villeneuve, director of Dune, is attached to direct the next 007 feature. He works alongside producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman. This follows Amazon MGM Studios taking full creative control of the franchise, ending decades of traditional family stewardship.
What Happens Next?
Screen tests for the final four candidates are scheduled in London. While initial scheduling conflicts pushed timelines back from early October, industry insiders suggest Amazon MGM Studios could make an official casting announcement before the end of the year. Principal photography is anticipated to begin in 2027.
Amazon has not commented on the leaked shortlist or specific audition schedules. Fans will soon discover who will take up the mantle of 007.
