Callum Turner, a leading contender for the role of James Bond, has reportedly resigned from the film production company he co-founded with his wife Dua Lipa, a move insiders suggest signals his commitment to securing the iconic 007 role.
According to The Sun, Turner, 36, stepped down from TwentyTwo Films Ltd, a company he and Lipa, 31, established 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."
Screen Tests and Shortlist
Screen testing for the role reportedly began in Berkshire last week. The Hollywood Reporter indicates the shortlist has been narrowed to four names, including Turner. Jack Lowden, 36, and Josh O'Connor, 36, are also believed to be in contention, with a fourth (and possibly fifth) actor said to be participating in the tests.
Turner has consistently declined to comment on the Bond rumours. When questioned by Esquire earlier this year, he said: "I don't know anything, so I can't comment. There's nothing for me to comment on," adding, "I think it's best just to not say anything." He also refused to say whether he would accept the role if offered, responding: "I'm not going to comment. It's just so loaded, it's just such a loaded thing." He did acknowledge that he 'appreciated' the praise when told he would make a good 007.
Odds Shift to Jack Lowden
Former favourite Jacob Elordi, 29, is reportedly no longer in contention, having not taken part in recent screen tests, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Instead, Scottish actor Jack Lowden has emerged as the new frontrunner, with odds of 8/11 from Ladbrokes.
Nicola McGeady of Ladbrokes told The Sun: "The Bond race looks to be reaching crunch time and punters are firmly backing Jack Lowden to get the call. He's already odds-on and the latest speculation has only fuelled support for him, with Callum Turner looking like his biggest threat." Lowden previously joked about the speculation: "I think everybody who runs around with a serious face and runs well [is named as a rumoured James Bond]."
