Hunt for the next James Bond said to be in final stages

The search for the next James Bond will reportedly reach its final stages this weekend as screen tests for the role are held in London.

Slow Horses actor Jack Lowden, One Night Only star Callum Turner and The Crown’s Josh O’Connor are in the mix for the screen tests, which could begin as early as Friday, according to Deadline.

Contrary to previous rumours, Euphoria actor Jacob Elordi and Sinners star Jack O’Connell are not among those trying out for the role, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

It is said there will be three components to the screen tests: stunts, camera presence and dialogue.

The actor chosen will replace Daniel Craig, who took over the role with Casino Royale, which was released in 2006, and bowed out after his fifth film, 2021’s No Time To Die.

Amy Pascal, who will produce the next Bond film, told Deadline earlier in 2026 that an announcement about casting by “the end of the year is a good bet”.

“We are being really, really methodical,” she said.

“Having worked with (producer) Barbara Broccoli at the studio, I mean, Daniel Craig is a hard act to follow.

“And it’s got to be something really different that is stirring, exciting.”

The next Bond film, currently untitled, will be directed by Dune’s Denis Villeneuve while Harry Potter producer David Heyman will work alongside Pascal on the project.

Representatives for Turner, Lowden, O’Connor and Amazon Studios have been contacted for comment.

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