Jack Lowden has emerged as the clear favourite among James Bond fans to replace Daniel Craig as 007, as reports claim there are four finalists in the running for the role.
The forthcoming 26th James Bond picture, presently known as Bond 26, is in active pre-production with Amazon MGM Studios. It will represent a complete franchise reboot following Craig's concluding appearance in No Time to Die.
Production Team and Casting Progress
Denis Villeneuve (Dune, Blade Runner 2049, Arrival) has committed to direct the picture, while screenwriter Steven Knight (Peaky Blinders, Eastern Promises) is penning the script and has already finished an initial draft. Experienced producers Amy Pascal (Spider-Man) and David Heyman (Harry Potter, Paddington) are overseeing the project for Amazon MGM Studios.
Despite numerous production elements already progressing, the identity of the actor portraying James Bond remains undisclosed. Casting for the fresh 007 is actively proceeding under renowned casting director Nina Gold. The studio is understood to be seeking a performer in their late 20s or early 30s to lead the franchise for the coming decade.
Four Finalists and Fan Reaction
Reports emerged this week suggesting the four contenders undertaking screen tests for James Bond comprise of Callum Turner (Masters of the Air), Jack Lowden (Slow Horses), and Josh O'Connor (Challengers), plus a 'mystery actor'. An official declaration concerning the new James Bond is anticipated before year's end.
As the four finalists were discussed on X, numerous Bond enthusiasts appeared to have a distinct preference for the part. One person declared: "Rooting for Jack Lowden." While another stated: "Sending all my good energy to Jack." A third contributed: "Jack, please!" While a fourth commented: "Oh my God, please be Jack."
Scepticism Over Turner and Mystery Actor Speculation
Numerous people were also puzzled by one actor featured on the list - Callum Turner - with some suggesting the 36-year-old couldn't 'pull off' the part. "Callum isn't James Bond material," one person remarked. While another commented: "How bad has the audition process been for Callum Turner to be in a shortlist." A third agreed: "In what world would Callun Turner be able to pull off Bond?"
Many were also left guessing about the identity of the 'mystery' actor, with numerous people believing it could be Theo James. Nevertheless, the 41-year-old actor has categorically dismissed himself from contention for the part. Speaking to British GQ, the Oxford native declared that he considers himself "definitely too old" for the role. He also outlined that he has no appetite for the "hyper-scrutiny and fame" that comes with the 007 badge, referencing the effect it would have on his family. Additional names people speculated the mystery actor might be included Bridgerton star Luke Thompson, Cillian Murphy and Henry Cavill.
Release Timeline and Production Schedule
No official title or confirmed premiere date for the film has been announced yet. Director Villeneuve is presently completing post-production work on Dune: Part Three. Production for Bond 26 is scheduled to commence in 2027, making a cinema release probable in 2028.
