Three Actors Vie for James Bond as 2026 Casting Nears
The search for the next James Bond has narrowed to three actors, with Jacob Elordi and Jack Lowden publicly named.
The race to become the next 007 has narrowed to three confirmed names after extensive consideration of potential candidates. Jacob Elordi, Jack Lowden, and an undisclosed third actor are the final contenders to replace Daniel Craig, who bowed out in 2021's No Time To Die. Amy Pascal, a producer on the new film, stated the new James Bond will be cast by the end of 2026. An announcement is expected imminently, possibly within the last week of October and early November.
The Two Publicly Discussed Contenders
Only two names are being publicly mentioned among the three candidates. Jack Lowden and Jacob Elordi are the names being openly debated, each carrying distinct advantages and drawbacks for the role.
Jack Lowden is considered a frontrunner. He is British, classically trained, and has spy pedigree from his role in Slow Horses. However, he will be pushing 37 when cameras roll, which is perceived to be older than Amazon would ideally want. Gary Oldman has publicly said he hopes it is Jack Lowden.
Jacob Elordi was Amazon MGM's top choice for the role. A younger early frontrunner, he is a global name and ideal for a major IP reboot. He has earned an Oscar nomination for Frankenstein, headlined Wuthering Heights, and wrapped up Euphoria. At 6'5" tall, he would be the second Australian 007 after George Lazenby. His height and nationality have been points of contention. Charlie Higson previously said Elordi was 'too tall' for the role. Debbie McWilliams, the franchise's longtime casting director, does not want rumoured hopefuls Elordi, Callum Turner, or Harris Dickinson to become 007.
Elordi and Lowden recently completed screen tests. The source leans toward Lowden or the dark horse, but would love to be wrong about Elordi. Since initial reports, Elordi's name has started popping up on betting markets.
The Mystery Third Candidate
An undisclosed third actor remains in the running, described as a dark horse who could surprise observers. This mystery third candidate has barely been speculated about and could be director Denis Villeneuve's wild card if he decides to go against the grain. The identity of this actor is not known.
Production Timeline and Creative Direction
With filming expected to begin in early 2027 and Denis Villeneuve directing, the studio is moving swiftly to cast the new Bond. The new Bond is expected to be in place ready for a January or February start to filming. Amazon MGM Studios presumably wants to announce the Bond actor before the Dune: Part Three press tour, where Villeneuve will likely be questioned about James Bond.
The 26th James Bond film is being directed by Denis Villeneuve and written by Steven Knight. Amy Pascal and David Heyman are producing. Villeneuve wanted a fresh face from the British Isles, someone in his late 20s or early 30s, and isn't a director who gets pushed around. He has a tendency to gravitate toward the biggest, hottest young stars.
Barbara Broccoli, who has final casting approval, previously cast Daniel Craig when the internet was skeptical and always favored actors over stars. Other rumoured actors like Tom Holland are unable to pursue the role due to his Marvel contract, and Taron Egerton ruled himself out. Ewan Mitchell from House Of The Dragon is being considered for the villain role. An announcement regarding the new James Bond is expected imminently.
