The search for the next James Bond is entering its most important stage yet. Amazon MGM Studios is reportedly preparing to conduct final screen tests for the iconic 007 role, bringing the long-running casting process closer to a decision.
According to reports published by Deadline, Variety and TheWrap on October 22–23, the final auditions could begin on Friday, October 23, 2026, and continue through the following week.
At least four actors have reportedly received offers to participate, although Amazon MGM Studios has not officially confirmed the candidates.
Who Is in the Running to Become the Next James Bond?
Three prominent names have emerged from the latest reports: Jack Lowden, Callum Turner and Josh O’Connor.
Lowden, best known for playing River Cartwright in Apple TV’s Slow Horses, has frequently appeared in Bond casting speculation. His co-star Gary Oldman previously expressed support for him taking over the role.
Turner, whose credits include Masters of the Air and the Fantastic Beasts films, has also been linked to the franchise for several months.
Meanwhile, O’Connor, recognized for The Crown and Challengers, represents another intriguing possibility.
Deadline and TheWrap identify all three as potential finalists, while Variety specifically names Lowden and Turner.
However, none has been officially announced as a confirmed screen-test participant, and the identity of at least one other possible contender remains unknown.
Jacob Elordi Reportedly Out of the Race
One notable development concerns Jacob Elordi.
The Euphoria actor had previously been discussed as a possible successor to Daniel Craig, but TheWrap reports that he is no longer among the actors testing.
The Hollywood Reporter has also indicated that Elordi and Jack O’Connell are not expected to participate.
That does not establish the final shortlist as official, but it suggests the casting process has narrowed considerably.
The upcoming tests are reportedly designed to evaluate candidates’ screen presence, dialogue delivery and physical suitability for the demanding action role.
When Will the Next James Bond Be Announced?
The new film will be directed by Denis Villeneuve, the filmmaker behind Dune and Blade Runner 2049.
Steven Knight, creator of Peaky Blinders, is writing the screenplay, while Amy Pascal and David Heyman are producing.
The project will mark the first Bond film developed under Amazon MGM’s creative leadership following the franchise’s change in control in 2025.
Daniel Craig last portrayed the British secret agent in No Time to Die (2021), ending his five-film tenure.
Industry reports suggest Amazon could announce his successor before the end of 2026, although the studio has provided no official timetable.
The next James Bond movie also has no confirmed theatrical release date.
For now, the reported screen tests represent the clearest sign that the franchise is approaching a major casting decision. Whoever secures the role will inherit not only one of cinema’s most recognizable characters but also the responsibility of introducing 007 to a new generation.
