British actor Jack Barton, known for a handful of film and TV credits, is the latest star rumoured to be in the running for the role of James Bond. The search for the next Bond reportedly began in May, with a number of stars up for the 007 role after Daniel Craig stood down following his last Bond film, No Time To Die.
Barton Joins a Long List of Contenders
Barton has become the latest addition in a long list of contenders, which includes Masters of the Air actor Callum Turner, Wuthering Heights star Jacob Elordi, and Babygirl actor Harris Dickinson. The 31-year-old has reportedly emerged as a new favourite in the running to play the secret agent, despite being one of the lesser-known names in the ring.
Career Highlights and Notable Roles
Barton is known for roles in TV shows such as SAS: Rogue Heroes, as well as LGBTQ+ Netflix series Heartstopper and its follow-up film Heartstopper Forever. He made his screen debut in 2020 as skilled knight-in-training Sir Foldo in adventure series The Letter For The King. Barton later landed roles in programmes such as ITV drama Grantchester and BBC romance series The Pursuit Of Love, before making an appearance in the third season of sci-fi series War Of The Worlds. The actor has also made a minor appearance in 2023 film Poor Things, starring Emma Stone and Mark Ruffalo.
Heartstopper Role and Bond Franchise Context
One of his most recognisable roles is as David Nelson in Heartstopper, starring opposite Kit Connor’s Nick Nelson as his homophobic brother, who is unsupportive of his relationship with his boyfriend Charlie Spring. His character is an antagonist in the series, appearing throughout the second and third seasons and creating friction among his family. Barton reprised the role in the feature film, which was released earlier this year, and his character is seen working through his complicated relationships with his father and brother.
He also appeared in Steven Knight’s popular drama SAS: Rogue Heroes, which also stars Jack O’Connell, who is also among the names rumoured to play Bond. Daniel Craig left the Bond franchise in 2021. The role of Bond has been played by six actors including Sean Connery and Pierce Brosnan, with Craig making his debut as the beloved spy in 2006’s Casino Royale. He starred in five films before concluding his tenure as Bond in 2021.
It was announced last year that the next film will be written by Peaky Blinders creator Knight, and there has since been speculation surrounding who will play the next 007. Actors including Paul Mescal, Theo James, James Norton, and Barry Keoghan are also among the many names who have been suggested, although the rumours have continued to evolve.
