Amazon MGM Studios has officially launched the search for the next James Bond, marking a significant milestone in the iconic spy franchise. The studio announced the casting process is underway, though specific details remain undisclosed. Denis Villeneuve, director of the Dune films, will helm the next installment, with Steven Knight (Peaky Blinders) writing the script. Amy Pascal and David Heyman are producing, while Tanya Lapointe serves as executive producer.
The new actor will replace Daniel Craig, who concluded his five-film tenure with No Time to Die (2021). The franchise transitioned to Amazon MGM Studios in 2025 after Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson relinquished creative control, a shift that began when Amazon acquired MGM in 2022. Nina Gold, known for casting Game of Thrones and Star Wars, is overseeing the audition process.
Speculation about potential candidates has intensified, with Callum Turner currently the bookmakers' favorite. Other contenders include Harris Dickinson, Idris Elba, Tom Holland, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Jacob Elordi. Elba previously stated he was turned down for the role. The 26th Bond film is expected to bring fresh energy to the franchise, though no release date has been confirmed.