Pierce Brosnan has publicly backed Callum Turner to become the next James Bond, praising the actor's presence and strength as speculation grows over who will replace Daniel Craig.
The 73-year-old, who played Ian Fleming's spy in four films from 1995 to 2002, said he is "just an audience member" eager to see who will take on the role. Speaking to Vanity Fair, he said: "All the men who are on the list now are actors I admire," before singling out Turner, with whom he worked on the 2017 film The Only Living Boy in New York.
Brosnan's Endorsement of Turner
Brosnan said of Turner: "Callum Turner is someone I've worked with, and he's so strong." The pair played father and son in the film, alongside Kate Beckinsale, Cynthia Nixon and Jeff Bridges. Brosnan added that all the rumoured candidates "have a voice and a physique, and a presence on film," and that "whoever plays the role, I wish him the very best of life and strength and courage."
Brosnan also expressed excitement about director Denis Villeneuve, who is attached to the next Bond film, saying his work is "visionary" and that audiences would be "blown away" by the "iconoclastic" filmmaker.
Turner's Rumoured Candidacy
Turner, 36, has long been linked to the role since Craig's final appearance in No Time to Die (2021). He reportedly reached the final screen tests in October. Earlier this year, he told The Hollywood Reporter: "I know as much as you do – really, I know as much as you do," adding that the rumours have led friends and family to text him.
The Sun reported over the weekend that Turner had resigned from TwentyTwo Films Ltd, a company he set up with his wife, singer Dua Lipa, 31, last August. A source told the publication: "Callum is making all the right moves to become the next James Bond. The role is all-consuming and commitment to it is a top priority of the producers."
Other Contenders Respond
Josh O'Connor, another rumoured candidate, told the BBC while opening a new education centre in Cheltenham that being considered is "extraordinary" and "an incredibly bizarre pinch me moment," but added: "I am afraid, there is nothing to say beyond that."
An official casting announcement is expected at any time.
