Amazon MGM Studios has initiated final screen tests for the next James Bond, focusing on three potential candidates: Jack Lowden, Callum Turner, and Josh O’Connor, with an announcement expected by the end of the year.
The search for the next actor to portray the iconic British spy James Bond has entered a decisive phase, as Amazon MGM Studios prepares to conduct final screen tests. According to a report from Deadline, these auditions are set to commence as early as Friday, October 23, and are anticipated to continue through the following week. This significant milestone follows months of speculation and discussions surrounding the future of the Bond franchise, particularly after the departure of Daniel Craig, who portrayed the character in five films since 2006.
Emerging Candidates for the Role
As the casting process unfolds, insider reports suggest that at least four actors have been extended test offers, with three names prominently surfacing: Jack Lowden, Callum Turner, and Josh O’Connor. However, it is important to note that these names remain unconfirmed by Amazon MGM Studios, which has not responded to inquiries for comment.
Jack Lowden, best known for his role in the critically acclaimed series Slow Horses, has been in contention for the role longer than his peers. Richard Osman, a notable television presenter and author, previously indicated that Lowden was being “strongly considered” for the part. Callum Turner, recognized for his performances in Masters of the Air and the Fantastic Beasts franchise, brings a diverse acting background to the audition process. Josh O’Connor, who gained acclaim for his portrayal of Prince Charles in The Crown and starred alongside Craig in the film Challengers, rounds out this trio of candidates.
The identity of the fourth actor remains undisclosed, although Page Six reported that Jack Barton, an unknown actor, has been mentioned as a potential frontrunner. The lack of clarity regarding this fourth candidate adds an element of intrigue to the ongoing casting discussions.
Adjustments to the Testing Schedule
Originally planned for earlier in October, the screen tests were postponed due to scheduling conflicts among the finalists. This adjustment was made to ensure that the candidates could test concurrently, allowing for a fair comparison of performances. Industry insider Matt Belloni previously noted in September that test agreements were being finalized ahead of the auditions, while dismissing many circulating online speculation lists as “bogus.”
Despite the imminent screen tests, there is currently no confirmed timeline for a final casting decision. However, many industry observers suspect that an announcement could arrive by the end of the year. Producer Amy Pascal echoed this sentiment, suggesting that a casting announcement by the end of 2026 is a feasible expectation. Additionally, actor Gary Oldman claimed in September that the next Bond actor may have already been selected; this assertion remains unverified but adds a layer of speculation to the ongoing narrative.
Creative Team Behind the Next Bond Film
The upcoming installment of the James Bond franchise will be helmed by renowned director Denis Villeneuve, celebrated for his work on films such as Dune. The production team includes Pascal and David Heyman serving as producers, while the script is being crafted by Steven Knight, the esteemed creator of the acclaimed series Peaky Blinders. Nina Gold, a prominent casting director, joined the project in spring 2025, overseeing the initial auditions that took place in August, which ultimately led to the selection of the final group of contenders.
Amazon MGM gained full creative control over the Bond franchise in early 2025 through its partnership with longtime producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson. This restructuring marks a pivotal transition for the franchise, which has maintained a storied legacy since its inception in the early 1960s, characterized by its evolution in response to changing audience expectations and cultural contexts.
James Bond’s Enduring Cultural Impact
As fans await news on the next actor to embody the character, James Bond remains a significant figure in popular culture. Regal Cinemas has been screening all six previous iterations of Bond films in theaters through November 9, allowing audiences to revisit and appreciate the franchise’s rich history. Furthermore, comic book writer Grant Morrison is currently developing a new James Bond comic series for IDW, expanding the character’s presence across various media platforms.
The anticipation surrounding the next James Bond continues to mount, with both fans and industry insiders eagerly awaiting to see who will step into the legendary role following Craig’s impactful tenure. As the production progresses and casting decisions unfold, the future of the James Bond franchise remains a focal point of discussion within the entertainment community, reflecting broader trends in cinema and audience engagement.
