The search for the next James Bond is generating fresh excitement. Final screen tests are reportedly underway in London, and Callum Turner and Jack Lowden are among the actors in the mix. With acclaimed filmmaker Denis Villeneuve preparing to direct the next installment, the legendary spy franchise is moving closer to its next chapter, giving fans plenty of reasons to look forward to the future of 007.
According to Variety and Deadline, the final round of screen tests could begin as early as Friday, Oct. 23, and run through this week. Deadline reports at least four actors received test offers, with Josh O’Connor and an unnamed fourth actor joining Turner and Lowden. Although Amazon MGM Studios has not officially confirmed its final candidates, the screen tests suggest the long-running casting search has reached its most important stage yet.
Callum Turner and Jack Lowden Bring Different Strengths to 007
Turner’s name has been on the rise, attracting attention for his performance as Theseus Scamander in two of the “Fantastic Beasts” films and his lauded work in the well-received miniseries “Masters of the Air.” Turner would be a strong choice to suit up as the next iconic 007 because his previous roles have demonstrated several qualities the famous spy demands. With quiet confidence that balances his obvious charm with a subtle edge of danger, and the physical on-screen presence every leading man needs, Turner has built a career playing characters who stay composed under pressure while still revealing vulnerability beneath the surface.
On the other hand, Lowden has also built an impressive resume, particularly through his work in the espionage series “Slow Horses” and the war film “Dunkirk.” In “Slow Horses,” Lowden’s portrayal of River Cartwright gives him a strong foundation for Bond. River comes off as intelligent and determined, capable under pressure and occasionally reckless with just the right amount of charm. More importantly, Lowden makes those qualities feel natural, not flat or overdone. It’s the perfect blend audiences would love to see in a new Bond coming to the big screen.
Denis Villeneuve Will Direct the Next Bond Adventure
Whatever actor lands the difficult role, the news that has generated the most excitement for the upcoming project is that Denis Villeneuve has been brought in to direct the film. Known for his work on the “Dune” films and “Blade Runner 2049,” Villeneuve has established himself as a filmmaker who can take lore and concepts from preexisting franchises to new heights.
As such, his involvement gives the project a chance to give Bond a newer, dynamic cinematic feel while preserving the qualities that have made James Bond such a cultural icon. One way Villeneuve can pull this off is by diving deeper into Bond as a character, as he does with Paul Atreides in “Dune: Part Three,” which hits theaters Dec. 18. From the early footage alone, Paul’s journey promises psychological complexity, which could bring a different energy to the upcoming Bond film as well.
What Do We Know About the Story and Release Date?
Despite growing interest in the project, little has been released to the public, including the official title, storyline, supporting cast or release date. While some reports suggest the film could arrive in 2028, that timing remains unconfirmed.
The film will also be the first chapter of a new era behind the scenes. Amazon MGM Studios assumed creative control of Bond in 2025 following an agreement with longtime franchise stewards Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, and producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman are now steering the franchise alongside Villeneuve.
Despite the changes facing the film and the 007 brand, anticipation around the casting search reflects James Bond’s enduring popularity. A new actor in the iconic role marks a new chapter for the next generation of Bond fans.
For now, fans will have to wait for official casting news before learning who will inherit Bond’s famous license to kill. Pascal has said an announcement by the end of the year is a good bet. With experienced filmmakers assembling behind the scenes and screen tests underway, the next era of 007 is shaping up to be one of the franchise’s most intriguing developments in years.
Don't stop here
Every Score. Every Story. One Home.
Breaking sports, entertainment and news from across the Total Apex network, updated all day.
Get the Full Story →
