James Bond producer Amy Pascal has hinted that the next actor to play 007 will be 'really different' from Daniel Craig, with an announcement possibly coming by the end of the year.
Since Craig's final outing in 2021's No Time to Die, speculation has been rife about who will take on the iconic role. Pascal, who took over creative control of the franchise alongside Harry Potter producer David Heyman after Amazon MGM Studios acquired full control from longtime producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson in February 2025, offered some insight in a recent interview.
What to expect from the new Bond
Speaking to Deadline, Pascal said: 'I would say the end of the year is a good bet. We are being really, really methodical.' She added: 'Having worked with Barbara Broccoli at the studio – I mean, Daniel Craig is a hard act to follow. And it's got to be something really different that is a stirring and exciting and different.'
In June 2025, Dune filmmaker Denis Villeneuve was announced as the director for Bond 26, with Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight writing the script. Broccoli praised Villeneuve, calling him 'a fantastic filmmaker'. Villeneuve, a self-proclaimed 'die-hard' Bond fan, said: 'I intend to honour the tradition and open the path for many new missions to come.'
Casting rumours and frontrunners
Reports suggest that auditions for the next Bond were set to take place in August, with 5-7 actors still in the frame, though some sources say the number could be higher. Casting director Nina Gold has reportedly been meeting with lesser-known actors to potentially add to the list.
Among the names rumoured to be in contention are Callum Turner, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Louis Partridge, who at 23 would be the youngest ever Bond. However, no official confirmations have been made.
Given the early stages of production, fans may have to wait until at least 2028 for the next film.
