Robert Pattinson and Nicholas Hoult Tested for 007, Variety Reports

Robert Pattinson and Nicholas Hoult Tested for James Bond Role in Amazon Reboot

As the search for the next 007 accelerates under Amazon MGM Studios, Robert Pattinson and Nicholas Hoult have emerged as late contenders who screen-tested for the iconic spy role, Variety reported. The high-profile auditions took place over the weekend of October 24 at Bray Studios in the U.K., according to The Hollywood Reporter. Both actors bring extensive franchise experience to the production, having starred in major superhero and blockbuster series.

Pattinson currently portrays Batman for DC Studios and previously appeared in the Twilight and Harry Potter franchises. He also collaborated with incoming Bond director Denis Villeneuve on the upcoming Dune: Part Three, which is scheduled to premiere on December 18. Meanwhile, Hoult stars as Lex Luthor in DC’s Superman films and featured prominently in the 2010s X-Men prequel trilogy. Hoult is a runner-up to Pattinson for Batman years ago. He next stars in the Amazon MGM Studios movie “How to Rob a Bank,” in theaters on Nov. 13.

Contenders Compete for the Franchise Rebuild

The studio’s latest round of evaluations puts Pattinson and Hoult alongside a group of previously reported British actors. According to Deadline, the casting process narrowed down a shortlist that includes Jack Lowden, Josh O’Connor, and Callum Turner. Insiders noted that a fifth test was added at the final hour, bringing the total group of testers to five actors. They also say the two mystery actors are “notable and established names, above the level of the still-rising likes of Callum Turner and company.”

Conventional wisdom previously suggested that the next Bond would not be a globally recognized star like Pattinson. However, industry reporting highlights that these are unprecedented times for the property. This upcoming installment, referred to as Bond 26, is the first film produced entirely under Amazon’s control after the company bought out creative rights from the Broccoli family in February 2025.

Producers and Directors Shape the Future of 007

Behind the camera, producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman have made getting the new film off the ground a top priority. Amazon tapped Denis Villeneuve to direct the feature, with Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight hired to pen the script. The search for Daniel Craig’s successor began in earnest back in the spring, when casting director Nina Gold joined the production.

Industry veterans have weighed in on the ongoing rumors. Pierce Brosnan expressed support for Callum Turner, while Gary Oldman endorsed his Slow Horses co-star Jack Lowden. Oldman also claimed that a selection had already been made, though no official casting announcement has been released by the studio. Amazon declined to comment on the screen tests or casting rumors. Amazon declined to comment on the casting rumors. Best of Variety. Sign up for Variety’s Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 007 Casting Process

When did the final screen tests take place?

Final auditions occurred over the weekend of October 24 at Bray Studios in the United Kingdom after minor scheduling conflicts pushed the timeline back from earlier in the month.

Who is writing and directing the next James Bond film?

Denis Villeneuve serves as the director for the project, working from a script written by Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight.

When was the last James Bond film released?

Daniel Craig retired from the role following the release of No Time to Die in 2021, concluding his five-film tenure as 007.

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