The long-running search for the next actor to portray James Bond appears to be reaching its climax, with sources claiming the role has been secured by the current bookmakers' favourite, Callum Turner.
The 'Worst-Kept Secret' in Town
According to insiders speaking to The Mail on Sunday, Callum Turner, the 35-year-old star of 'Masters of the Air' and 'Fantastic Beasts', has been informing his inner circle that he will be the successor to Daniel Craig. One source close to the actor stated it was now an open secret, remarking, 'He's been blabbing all over town. Callum is the new Bond, it's been confirmed. Everyone in his circle is talking about it. It's the worst-kept secret going.'
If confirmed, this casting could lead to a lucrative two-for-one deal for the franchise's new owner, Amazon. Producers are reportedly considering engaging Turner's fiancée, global pop superstar Dua Lipa, to create the next iconic Bond theme song. Lipa, 30, who previously wrote 'Swan Song' for 'Alita: Battle Angel', is said to be 'over the moon' for Turner and eager to join the lineage of artists like Adele and Billie Eilish.
From Council Estate to 007's Walther PPK
Turner's potential ascent to the iconic role marks a remarkable journey. Raised on a London council estate, he began his career as a model for Next before his big break in the 'Harry Potter' spin-off prequels, 'Fantastic Beasts'. He has since earned critical praise for his role in George Clooney's 'The Boys in the Boat' and his leading performance in the Spielberg and Hanks-produced series 'Masters of the Air'.
His relationship with Dua Lipa, which began in January 2024 and led to an engagement last summer, has fuelled Bond speculation. The couple notably holidayed at Goldeneye in Jamaica, the former estate of Bond creator Ian Fleming. A source commented, 'If it is Callum then he'd be a popular pick. He has the looks and sophistication for Bond and he has proved his acting chops.'
Amazon's Billion-Pound Gamble on Bond's Future
The pressure is on for a flawless revival. The next film, tentatively titled Bond 26, is one of Hollywood's most anticipated projects, with filming potentially starting this year for a 2027 release. It will be the first Bond film since Amazon acquired the rights for a reported $1 billion in February 2023.
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is described as a 'massive fan' who is 'closely involved' in the process. A company source emphasised the stakes: 'He knows what an important place Bond holds in people's hearts. Whoever is chosen to be Bond has to be perfect. The script has to be sensational.' The film is being written by 'Peaky Blinders' creator Steven Knight and will be overseen by acclaimed director Denis Villeneuve ('Dune').
While Turner has surged ahead in the betting odds, overtaking contenders like Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Idris Elba, official confirmation is still pending. Representatives for Callum Turner, Dua Lipa, and Amazon all declined to comment.
In related news, actress and model Liz Hurley, 60, rang in the New Year with a striking tribute to the original Bond girl, Ursula Andress. Attending a 007-themed party with partner Billy Ray Cyrus, Hurley wore a white bikini and faux-fur coat, directly channelling Andress's iconic entrance in 'Dr. No'.
