Who Will Be the Next James Bond? A Look at the Top Contenders
The Race for the Next James Bond
The quest to find the next actor to portray James Bond has gained momentum, with fresh insights emerging about the frontrunners vying to take over from Daniel Craig. Since Craig's exit from the iconic role in 2021, discussions about his successor have dominated industry chatter.
As of November 2026, the casting process is reportedly at a pivotal point. Among the actors being considered are Robert Pattinson and Nicholas Hoult, both of whom have allegedly undergone screen tests for the upcoming film. Other names in the mix include Callum Turner, Jack Lowden, and Josh O'Connor.
Insights on the Leading Candidates
Robert Pattinson, famed for his performances in The Batman and the Twilight saga, is said to have screen-tested in London in late October 2026. His previous collaboration with director Denis Villeneuve adds to his credentials. Nicholas Hoult, known for his roles in the X-Men franchise and his recent portrayal of Lex Luthor in Superman, has also confirmed his participation in the testing process.
Callum Turner, recognized for his roles in Masters of the Air and the Fantastic Beasts series, has garnered support from former Bond actor Pierce Brosnan, who praised Turner's screen presence in a November 2026 interview. Meanwhile, Josh O'Connor, who rose to fame as Prince Charles in The Crown, has been linked to the final testing phase. In a November 3, 2026, BBC interview, O'Connor expressed his gratitude for the speculation but clarified that no official offer had been extended.
Jack Lowden, known for his role as River Cartwright in Slow Horses, is also a candidate expected to audition for the part. His co-star Gary Oldman has publicly endorsed him, and in a November 2026 British GQ interview, Lowden described the ongoing rumors as flattering. Additionally, there are reports that Harry Styles has been in talks regarding the role, although it remains unconfirmed whether he has participated in any formal screen tests.