Amazon MGM Studios Screen Tests Actors for Next James Bond Role

Amazon MGM Studios and director Denis Villeneuve are searching across the United Kingdom for the next actor to play James Bond, according to reports from Page Six and The Playlist.

The studio plans to conduct screen tests in September 2026 for multiple contenders, including Jack Barton, Jacob Elordi, Paul Mescal, Callum Turner, Jack Lowden, and Harris Dickinson. The Playlist reported that Barton, Lowden, Turner, and Jack O'Connell are currently among the top figures under consideration.

Filmmaker Denis Villeneuve is set to direct the upcoming franchise installment, with Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight writing the screenplay. The search comes after Daniel Craig concluded his tenure as the iconic British secret agent.

Villeneuve expressed his enthusiasm for taking on the project and managing the historic franchise.

"Some of my earliest movie-going memories are connected to 007," said Denis Villeneuve, Director. "I grew up watching James Bond films with my father, ever since Dr. No with Sean Connery.

I’m a die-hard Bond fan. To me, he’s sacred territory. I intend to honor 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 honor."

The studio has not announced a final casting decision or a production timeline for the upcoming 007 film.