Challengers star Josh O’Connor addressed speculation linking him to the James Bond franchise while attending the opening of the Everyman Theatre’s new education and community centre in his hometown of Cheltenham, according to reports. The 36-year-old actor, who won an Emmy for his portrayal of Prince Charles in The Crown, described the rumors as a bizarre pinch-me moment. O’Connor is reportedly in the running alongside fellow actors Callum Turner and Jack Lowden to replace Daniel Craig, who concluded his five-film tenure as 007 in 2021 with No Time to Die.
Industry Reactions and Screen Tests for the Next 007
While O’Connor has not confirmed whether he is participating in formal auditions, industry momentum has picked up around other contenders. Variety reported that former 007 actor Pierce Brosnan gave his approval to Callum Turner, stating that he is eager to see who takes on the role and praising Turner’s physique and presence on film. Brosnan previously starred alongside Turner in the 2017 feature The Only Living Boy in New York. Meanwhile, Euronews.com noted that fresh speculation intensified after Turner was spotted at Bray Studios in Berkshire for a screen test, and UK reports indicated he stepped down as a director of his production company, Twentytwo Films Ltd.
Jack Lowden Gains Support from Slow Horses Co-Star
Jack Lowden has also emerged as a prominent frontrunner for the franchise. Euronews.com reported that British actress Kristin Scott Thomas backed her Slow Horses co-star in an interview with The Times, stating that Lowden possesses the necessary charisma, a cheeky twinkle, and strong acting chops to carry the spy series. Lowden plays disgraced MI5 agent River Cartwright in the Apple TV+ espionage thriller. Film industry insiders believe final auditions have been taking place in London as producers conduct a methodical search for Craig’s successor.
Josh O'Connor when asked about Bond rumors (via BBC): "To be considered in that same sort of bracket is extraordinary… It's an incredibly bizarre pinch me moment…even being uttered in that same sentence and being considered for something like that." https://t.co/kAdf3NQtMr
Production Timeline and Creative Team for Bond 26
The untitled next installment in the franchise is currently in development with a script penned by Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight, according to rte.ie. Producer Amy Pascal told Deadline earlier this year that casting announcements are expected by the end of the year, emphasizing that the team is taking a methodical approach to follow Daniel Craig’s legacy. Denis Villeneuve is attached to direct the project, which Euronews.com reports is slated to kick off production in 2027 with a theatrical release planned for 2028 under Amazon’s creative control.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Next James Bond Film
Who is writing and directing the next James Bond film?
Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight is writing the script for the untitled film, and Dune filmmaker Denis Villeneuve is set to direct.
When does production and release begin for Bond 26?
Production is expected to begin in 2027, with a target release date planned for 2028, according to Euronews.com.
Which actors are currently rumored to be in contention for the role?
Josh O’Connor, Callum Turner, and Jack Lowden are among the actors frequently cited by industry insiders and media outlets as frontrunners to replace Daniel Craig.
Keep reading