The race to become the next James Bond is reportedly narrowing as Amazon MGM Studios moves closer to selecting the actor who will succeed Daniel Craig as the iconic British secret agent.
According to Variety, final screen tests could begin as early as October 23. However, the complete list of actors participating in the auditions has not been confirmed, and the studio has yet to announce its preferred candidate.
Several entertainment reports have identified Callum Turner and Jack Lowden as potential finalists, while Josh O’Connor has also emerged as a possible contender.
Jacob Elordi and Jack O’Connell Reportedly Out of the Running
Jacob Elordi, who has been linked to the coveted role in recent speculation, is reportedly not among the actors involved in the latest screen tests.
Jack O’Connell, another name previously associated with the casting race, has also reportedly fallen out of contention.
Neither the final shortlist nor the status of individual candidates has been officially confirmed by Amazon MGM Studios. The reported developments should therefore be treated as speculation until the studio makes an announcement.
Callum Turner and Jack Lowden Emerge as Contenders
Callum Turner, 36, has attracted attention for his performances in Fantastic Beasts and Masters of the Air. The actor has been linked to the Bond role for months, although he has not publicly confirmed his participation in the final casting process.
Jack Lowden, also 36, is widely recognised for playing River Cartwright in the espionage drama Slow Horses. Speculation surrounding his possible involvement intensified after his co-star Gary Oldman appeared to suggest that the casting decision had already been made.
However, no official announcement has confirmed that Lowden has secured the role or reached the final stage of auditions.
Josh O’Connor, known for The Crown and Challengers, has also featured in recent reports about potential candidates. His involvement in the reported screen tests remains unconfirmed.
Tom Cruise’s Digger struggles at box office as Verity takes the lead
Denis Villeneuve to Direct the Next Bond Film
The upcoming James Bond film will be directed by Denis Villeneuve, the filmmaker behind Dune and Blade Runner 2049. Casting director Nina Gold is overseeing the search, while Steven Knight has been selected to write the screenplay.
The project marks a new phase for the long-running franchise following Amazon MGM Studios’ acquisition of creative control in 2025.
The next film will introduce a new actor in the role after Daniel Craig’s final appearance as Bond in No Time to Die, which was released in 2021.
When Will the Next James Bond Be Announced?
Since Craig’s departure, numerous established actors have been linked to the role, generating sustained speculation among fans about who will inherit the famous character.
The reported screen tests suggest that the selection process may be advancing, but the final candidates and announcement date remain uncertain.
Until Amazon MGM Studios confirms its decision, Turner, Lowden, O’Connor and other reported contenders remain speculative choices rather than officially announced finalists. Industry reports have suggested that the casting decision could be revealed before the end of 2026, although no confirmed announcement date has been provided.
