James Bond 26: 5 Biggest Betting Favorites for the Next 007, Ranked by How Exciting They Are

Amazon MGM Studios is now holding auditions to find the next James Bond. With Daniel Craig finishing his run as 007 in No Time to Die (2021), Amazon bought the rights to the James Bond franchise and is planning a refresh. Casting director Nina Gold says they’re looking for someone who is undeniably charismatic and young enough to play the role for at least four movies—ideally, the actor will be in their early 30s, as Daniel Craig was when he first took on the part.

Denis Villeneuve, the director of Dune, is set to direct the next James Bond film, and the search for the new 007 is beginning soon. Here are five actors currently considered the most likely candidates for the role at Amazon MGM Studios.

5) Theo James

Theo James first gained recognition for his role in the Divergent movies. But his recent work, particularly in the Netflix series The Gentlemen, is why many believe he’d be an excellent James Bond. Created by Guy Ritchie, the show features James as a former Army captain who unexpectedly finds himself involved in a drug operation after inheriting some land. His performance demonstrates he has both the skill and the charm needed to play 007.

At 41, James is starting to consider that he may only appear in four more films, as he’ll be at least 50 by the time the last one is released, given the production timeline. However, the actor, originally from High Wycombe, England, clearly has the experience and skill to successfully take over the role previously held by Daniel Craig.

4) Aaron Taylor-Johnson

Aaron Taylor-Johnson is being considered as the next James Bond, but many believe he’s a long shot. However, he has something unique going for him – experience in major film franchises that no other potential Bond actor can claim. While he’s taken on big roles before, those films haven’t always been successful.

Though he played Quicksilver in Avengers: Age of Ultron and Kraven the Hunter for Sony, both roles were short-lived and didn’t resonate with audiences. He also had a part in the first Godzilla movie in the new MonsterVerse series. Despite these experiences, strong performances in films like Tenet, Bullet Train, The Fall Guy, and especially his praised work in Nosferatu show he’s a talented actor still searching for a truly breakout role – and many believe James Bond could be it.

3) Jacob Elordi

Jacob Elordi received an Oscar nomination for his performance in Guillermo del Toro’s version of Frankenstein, though the role required extensive makeup as the Creature. Beyond that, he’s also showcased his talent in roles where he appears as himself, such as in the 2026 romance Wuthering Heights and the 2023 independent film Saltburn.

Those three films were all highly praised, and actor Jacob Elordi seems poised for a bigger career. At just 28 years old, he’s young enough to potentially play James Bond in five movies before reaching 40. It remains to be seen if he’d commit to the role for the next ten years, but it’s a part many actors dream of, and could be a turning point in his career.

2) Harris Dickinson

Harris Dickinson doesn’t immediately fit the traditional image of James Bond, especially compared to previous actors who’ve played the part. He currently has a youthful appearance and doesn’t quite project the dangerous aura typically associated with Bond. However, a look at his film work reveals he has the experience and talent to be a strong contender for the role.

He first gained recognition with a Best Male Lead nomination at the Independent Spirit Awards for his performance in the 2017 film, Beach Rats. Following this, he transitioned to television, portraying John Paul Getty III in the FX series Trust (2018). He’s since expanded his career behind the camera, directing a film called Urchin, which earned the FIPRESCI Prize at the Cannes Film Festival – showcasing his talents extend beyond acting. He also appeared in the action film The King’s Man (2021), playing Conrad Oxford.

1) Callum Turner

Callum Turner is currently the frontrunner to become the next James Bond. The London-born actor has a solid foundation in film, having starred in the 2014 drama Queen and Country. He’s proven his versatility by taking on roles in a wide range of genres, from horror (Green Room) and action (Assassin’s Creed) to large franchises (Fantastic Beasts) and historical dramas (Emma).

He received nominations for Best Actor at the British Academy Television Awards in 2020 for his work in The Capture, and at the Satellite Awards in 2025 for Masters of the Air. Currently, many betting sites list him as the frontrunner to become the next James Bond. At 36 years old, with his look and acting experience, he appears to be a strong candidate as Amazon MGM Studios begins a new era for the franchise.

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2026-05-18 23:40