Who Will Be the Next James Bond? Top Actors in the Running for 007 Role

Robert Pattinson and Nicholas Hoult have been reported as part of the ongoing search to secure the iconic role of Agent 007, joining a competitive shortlist as the legendary spy franchise looks toward a new film following Daniel Craig’s departure in No Time to Die.

Actors Screen Test for New 007 Film

  • Robert Pattinson and Nicholas Hoult participated in screen tests in late October in London, alongside actors Callum Turner, Jack Lowden, and Josh O’Connor, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter and ANTARA News.
  • The upcoming 007 film marks a new chapter for the franchise after Amazon acquired the rights from the Broccoli family in February 2025, with Denis Villeneuve confirmed as director.
  • Former Bond actor Pierce Brosnan publicly voiced his support for candidate Callum Turner in the November 3, 2026 issue of Vanity Fair.

The Secret London Auditions

The race to cast the next James Bond intensified when sources confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter (as detailed by ANTARA News) that Robert Pattinson and Nicholas Hoult underwent confidential screen tests in London over the weekend of October 24. Both British actors bring extensive franchise experience to the table, having navigated major studio universes through DC Studios and other high-profile blockbusters.

According to The Hollywood Reporter coverage cited by CNN Indonesia, these auditions paired the contenders with director Denis Villeneuve. The secret sessions also included previously discussed candidates such as Callum Turner, Jack Lowden, and Josh O’Connor, reshaping the prevailing narratives surrounding who might inherit the Walther PPK.

Seven actors compete to become next James Bond | Sunrise

Josh O'Connor Faces Casting Speculation After Amazon MGM Studios Takeover

Speculation reached a fever pitch around Halloween when a theater colleague of Josh O’Connor reportedly leaked that the The Crown star had secured the role following late-stage negotiations with Amazon MGM Studios, as noted by The Sun and reported by CNN Indonesia. However, O’Connor subsequently expressed utter disbelief during press inquiries, telling the BBC that merely being mentioned in the same sentence as the legendary project felt entirely surealis.

This casting cycle represents a major new phase for the MI6 saga since Amazon assumed control of the franchise from the Broccoli family in February 2025, according to ANTARA News. With Denis Villeneuve officially set to direct alongside producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman, the creative team aims to continue the spy franchise.

Who Will Be the Next James Bond? Top Actors in the Running for 007 Role
Photo: Republika

Pierce Brosnan Endorses Callum Turner Amid Casting Race

Amid the intense studio casting process, former 007 actor Pierce Brosnan weighed in on the evolving race. In an interview with Vanity Fair on November 3, 2026, Brosnan endorsed Callum Turner, stating, Callum aktor yang memiliki kekuatan dalam berperan.

Actor Reported Status Notable Franchise History
Robert Pattinson Completed screen test in London (Late October) The Batman, Twilight, Tenet
Nicholas Hoult Participated in secret auditions Superman (Lex Luthor), X-Men
Callum Turner Endorsed by former 007 Pierce Brosnan Fantastic Beasts, Masters of the Air
Josh O’Connor Included in London audition shortlist The Crown, Challengers

As Amazon and the production team weigh their options following Daniel Craig’s five-film tenure ending with No Time to Die, official announcements regarding the next occupant of the tuxedo remain pending.

Search for next James Bond narrows as 3 British actors emerge as leading contenders
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Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

Senior Editor, Entertainment Marina is a celebrated pop culture columnist and recipient of multiple media awards. She curates engaging stories about film, music, television, and celebrity news, always with a fresh and authoritative voice.

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