Bond 26 is in active pre-production at Amazon MGM Studios, with four actors reportedly shortlisted as finalists to play the next James Bond. Fans have already voiced a clear favourite: Jack Lowden.
The franchise's 26th film will reboot the series after Daniel Craig's exit in No Time to Die. The first draft of the screenplay is complete, written by Steven Knight, known for Peaky Blinders and Eastern Promises. Denis Villeneuve, director of Dune, Blade Runner 2049 and Arrival, will take the director's chair. Producers Amy Pascal (Spider-Man) and David Heyman (Harry Potter, Paddington) are steering the project at Amazon MGM Studios.
Four Finalists Screen-Test for 007
Reports this week suggest the four shortlisted candidates screen-testing for the role are Callum Turner (Masters of the Air), Jack Lowden (Slow Horses), and Josh O'Connor (Challengers), alongside a so-called 'mystery actor'. The studio is reportedly seeking an actor in their late 20s or early 30s to lead the franchise for the next decade, under casting director Nina Gold. An official announcement is expected before the end of the year.
On X, debate over the finalists heated up, with many fans backing Lowden. One person declared: "Rooting for Jack Lowden." Another wrote: "Sending all my good energy to Jack." A third pleaded: "Jack, please!" while a fourth exclaimed: "Oh my God, please be Jack."
Fans Question Callum Turner's Inclusion
Some viewers were baffled by Turner's presence on the shortlist, suggesting the 36-year-old isn't right for the iconic role. "Callum isn't James Bond material," one person remarked. Another questioned: "How bad has the audition process been for Callum Turner to be in a shortlist." A third concurred: "In what world would Callum Turner be able to pull off Bond?"
Speculation also centred on the identity of the 'mystery' actor, with many betting on Theo James. However, the 41-year-old has ruled himself out, telling British GQ he considers himself "definitely too old" for the part and has no desire for the "hyper-scrutiny and fame" that comes with the 007 mantle, citing the impact on his family. Other names mentioned include Bridgerton's Luke Thompson, Cillian Murphy and Henry Cavill.
Release Timeline and Next Steps
No official title or confirmed release date has been announced. Director Villeneuve is currently finishing post-production on Dune: Part Three. Production on Bond 26 is due to begin in 2027, with a theatrical release anticipated in 2028.
