Who could be the next James Bond? Makers share casting update

The hunt for the next James Bond has formally entered a new phase, with Amazon MGM Studios confirming that the search for the actor who will play 007 is now underway. The update is the clearest sign yet that the next Bond film is moving ahead after years of speculation following No Time to Die, Daniel Craig’s final outing as the spy.

In a statement posted on X on Friday, the studio said: “The search for the next James Bond is underway (sic)." It added, "While we don’t plan to comment on specific details during the casting process, we’re excited to share more news with 007 fans as soon as the time is right (sic).” The studio has not announced a release date for the film.

The casting process begins

According to Variety, auditions have begun in recent weeks, with casting director Nina Gold reportedly involved in the process to identify Craig’s successor. That is the most concrete update so far on a casting process that has drawn sustained attention ever since Craig stepped away from the role.

Even before the studio’s confirmation, speculation around the next Bond had remained strong. Screen Rant reported that actors such as Jacob Elordi, Callum Turner and Aaron Taylor-Johnson had often been mentioned as possible contenders. Reports that auditions are now underway have also led to further speculation that the studio may be looking at a relatively lesser-known actor rather than an established Hollywood star.

Film team in place

The next Bond film will be directed by Denis Villeneuve, with Steven Knight attached as screenwriter. Amy Pascal and David Heyman are backing the project as producers, while Tanya Lapointe is serving as executive producer.

Earlier, Villeneuve said in a statement, "I intend to honour the tradition and open the path for many new missions to come. This is a massive responsibility, but also, incredibly exciting for me and a huge honour. Amy, David, and I are absolutely thrilled to bring him back to the screen. Thank you to Amazon MGM Studios for their trust (sic)."

At CinemaCon, Amazon MGM film chief Courtenay Valenti said the studio was moving carefully. “We’re taking the time to do this with care and deep respect What I can tell you is this: when you pair one of the most beloved franchises in history with a world-class filmmaking team, you’re setting the stage for something that’s truly worthy of the Bond legacy.” The studio had also said that a brand-new, exotic chapter of the franchise was being planned.

Gold brings major franchise experience to the process. She worked on Game of Thrones, where she helped assemble a large ensemble cast including Kit Harington, Emilia Clarke and Peter Dinklage. Her credits also include The Crown, multiple Star Wars films, The Martian and Les Misrables. She was previously nominated for an Oscar for Best Casting.

Amazon MGM Studios gained creative control of the Bond franchise from the Broccoli family in February 2025. Pascal and Heyman earlier welcomed Villeneuve in a joint statement, saying, "Denis Villeneuve has been in love with James Bond movies since he was a little boy. It was always his dream to make this movie, and now it’s ours, too. We are lucky to be in the hands of this extraordinary filmmaker."

Are you excited to find out who will be the next James Bond?