When it comes to cinema’s most iconic figures, James Bond stands alone. From Sean Connery’s suave debut to Daniel Craig’s raw and gritty reinvention, each actor has left a lasting mark on the character while reshaping him for a new generation. Craig’s 15-year tenure gave us a tougher, more human 007 and demonstrated that Bond could evolve without losing his mystique. With No Time to Die bringing his era to a close, the question on everyone’s mind has once again resurfaced — who will be the next James Bond?

Earlier this year, fans received seismic news about the franchise’s future. Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson, the longtime stewards of 007, handed over creative control to Amazon Studios after decades of guidance. Amazon had already bought MGM in 2022, but this time, they reportedly spent another billion dollars to shape Bond’s cinematic universe on their own terms. Soon after, Denis Villeneuve, the visionary director of Dune, was confirmed to direct the next Bond film. According to reports, Villeneuve will start looking for a new Bond once he finishes Dune Part Three, and he is said to be searching for a fresh face, ideally British, male, and in his late 20s or early 30s.

That direction puts some familiar favourites at risk, although one actor continues to attract plenty of attention. Aaron Taylor-Johnson has long been seen as a frontrunner, and his recent partnership with Omega — the luxury Swiss watchmaker that has been Bond’s signature timepiece brand for over 30 years — only adds to the speculation. Still, insiders suggest Villeneuve might ultimately prefer someone less obvious, perhaps even a newcomer, to bring a fresh energy to the role. With casting expected to start in 2026, filming planned for 2027, and Bond’s return scheduled for 2028, the wait for 007’s successor may be lengthy, but the stakes have never been higher.

• Most Likely To Be Cast: Aaron Taylor-Johnson
• Fan Favourite: Idris Elba
• The Classic Choice: Henry Cavill
• The Rising Star / Dark Horse: Regé-Jean Page
• The Long Shot: Tom Holland

• Nationality: British
• Age: 34 (June 13, 1990)
• Famous for: Kick-Ass, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Bullet Train
• Bond Credentials: Reportedly screen-tested in 2022, recently signed with Omega, Bond’s longtime watch brand

Aaron Taylor-Johnson has been the leading candidate in the Bond discussion for some time, and for good reason. He checks almost every box the producers are said to be looking for — British, mid-thirties, stylish, and able to blend raw physicality with effortless charm. His résumé spans indie favourites to blockbuster action roles, and his performance in Bullet Train demonstrated he can deliver a Bond-like mix of grit and wit.

Adding extra fuel to the fire, Taylor-Johnson recently became an ambassador for Omega, the Swiss watchmaker that has been inseparable from Bond’s image for over 30 years. While it is not official confirmation, the timing of the deal has fans and bookmakers reading between the lines. If the producers decide to play it safe with a proven star who can slip into the tux with minimal risk, Aaron Taylor-Johnson is arguably the strongest contender to succeed Daniel Craig.

• Nationality: British
• Age: 35 (February 15, 1990)
• Famous for: Fantastic Beasts series, The Capture, Masters of the Air
• Bond Credentials: Rising star with action credibility, sharp British style, & potential for global breakout

The next James Bond needs more than just a tuxedo and a martini — he must feel like a cultural icon, someone who can stand alongside modern figures like Dua Lipa on a red carpet and appear completely at ease. That is exactly where Callum Turner excels. With his chiseled looks, calm intensity, and magnetic screen presence, he already embodies the cool British sophistication that audiences associate with 007. His work in Masters of the Air has demonstrated he can handle both drama and action in equal measure, while Fantastic Beasts showed he has blockbuster appeal.

Turner’s advantage is that he feels fresh without being a complete unknown. He has the range to deliver the emotional depth Daniel Craig brought to Bond, but also the charisma to revive a more playful, classic style if the franchise chooses to shift direction. He isn’t yet a household name globally, but that has always been part of Bond’s tradition — taking talented British actors and transforming them into international stars. In that sense, Callum Turner might just be the kind of choice Barbara Broccoli and Denis Villeneuve are seeking.

• Nationality: British
• Age: 29 ( June 24, 1995)
• Famous for: Beach Rats, Triangle of Sadness, Where the Crawdads Sing, The King’s Man
• Bond Credentials: Young, versatile, and already tested in the world of espionage with The King’s Man

The James Bond producers have indicated they might prefer someone younger, someone capable of carrying the franchise for more than a decade. Harris Dickinson fits that description perfectly. At just 28, he has already demonstrated remarkable range, from indie drama in Beach Rats to sharp satire in Triangle of Sadness, and even entering the world of espionage as a young spy in The King’s Man. He possesses the raw talent and presence that could enable him to grow into the role, much like Daniel Craig did from Casino Royale to No Time to Die.

What makes Dickinson stand out is that he feels unpredictable — the kind of actor who can be vulnerable at one moment and dangerous the next, which is exactly what modern Bond needs. He has the youth, the look, and the acting talent, but he’s not yet fully defined in the public eye, giving the producers the freedom to shape him into a 007 for a new generation. If Denis Villeneuve truly is looking for a fresh face with longevity, Harris Dickinson could be one of the smartest bets available.

• Nationality: British
• Age: 42 (May 5, 1983)
• Famous for: Man of Steel, The Witcher, Mission Impossible – Fallout
• Bond Credentials: Screen-tested for 007 back in 2005, long-standing fan favourite with proven action chops

Henry Cavill has been part of the Bond debate for almost twenty years. He famously auditioned for the role in 2005, when Daniel Craig was ultimately cast, and since then, fans have been advocating for his return. With his work as Superman, his smooth portrayal of August Walker in Mission Impossible – Fallout, and his charismatic lead role in The Witcher, Cavill has repeatedly shown he can handle both big action movies and sophisticated storytelling.

At 41, Cavill is slightly older than Denis Villeneuve’s supposed “late 20s to early 30s” preference, but that has not stopped him from being one of the most talked-about candidates. His chiselled looks, commanding screen presence, and natural charm make him a near-perfect fit for the role, especially if producers want to lean into a more seasoned, authoritative Bond. If the search ends up favouring fan demand rather than fresh discovery, Henry Cavill could finally get the chance to wear the tuxedo he almost claimed 20 years ago.

• Nationality: British-Zimbabwean
• Age: 37 (April 27, 1988)
• Famous for: Bridgerton, The Gray Man, Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves
• Bond Credentials: Suave screen presence, international appeal, already a fan-favourite contender

Rising to global fame as the Duke of Hastings in Bridgerton, he promptly proved he has the charisma and sophistication to portray a character like James Bond. Since then, he has expanded his range in action-packed projects like The Gray Man, demonstrating he can handle fight scenes and blockbuster spectacle just as well as smouldering glances and witty one-liners. At 36, he fits comfortably within the ideal age group, and his dual heritage offers the potential to bring a fresh, modern perspective to 007 without losing the essence of the role. Stylish, charming, and already loved by audiences worldwide, Page is one of the few actors who could seamlessly blend tradition with reinvention, making him a strong contender for the next Bond.

• Nationality: British
• Age: 35 (February 24, 1988)
• Famous for: Rising theatre and screen actor, noted for dramatic intensity
• Bond Credentials: Reportedly auditioned for 007, fits Denis Villeneuve’s “fresh face” vision

Scott Rose-Marsh might not yet be a household name, but that could be exactly why he’s one of the most intriguing candidates for the next James Bond. Reports indicate he has already auditioned for the role, placing him solidly in the mix as producers and Denis Villeneuve consider a new direction for the franchise. With a commanding presence and dramatic range developed through theatre and indie projects, Rose-Marsh embodies the kind of bold, unexpected casting that has helped define some of the most successful Bonds in history.

If Villeneuve genuinely wants to cast a younger, lesser-known actor to reboot 007 for a new era, Rose-Marsh fits the bill perfectly. He has the British roots, the intensity, and the potential to surprise audiences in the best possible way. Every Bond era has introduced a new face who has gone on to become a global star, and Scott Rose-Marsh could be the dark horse ready to slip into the tuxedo and redefine what it means to be James Bond.

• Nationality: British
• Age: 52 (September 6, 1972)
• Famous for: Luther, Beasts of No Nation, The Suicide Squad, Hobbs & Shaw
• Bond Credentials: Longtime fan favourite, effortlessly cool, has the charisma and gravitas to embody 007

As soon as rumours of a new James Bond started circulating, Idris Elba quickly rose to the top of the fan-casting lists. Handsome, magnetic, and incredibly talented, he has the charisma to bring new life to the role and the acting range to portray a 007 with both grit and refinement. His acclaimed portrayal as John Luther already showed audiences how convincingly he could be a brooding, relentless spy, while his Hollywood action roles demonstrate he can handle the physical demands of Bond without breaking a sweat. Few actors possess the natural charisma that Elba does, and it’s easy to imagine him slipping into the tuxedo and making the role his own.

That said, Elba himself has tried to quiet the speculation. When asked about the role, he admitted that he doesn’t see the iconic super spy when he “looks in the mirror.” It sounded like a dismissal, but for fans, it was hardly a definitive no. At 52, he may be outside Denis Villeneuve’s rumoured preference for a younger Bond, yet few actors could bring the same mix of maturity, swagger, and gravitas to the part. Even if Idris Elba never plays James Bond, audiences still see him as the spy who could have been — and that enduring fan love says it all.

• Nationality: British-Nigerian
• Age: 34 (September 2, 1991)
• Famous for: Snowfall, Swarm, Outside the Wire
• Bond Credentials: Rising star with sharp intensity, already proven in crime and action roles

Damson Idris has become one of the most promising British actors of his generation, thanks to his breakout performance as Franklin Saint in Snowfall. The role demonstrated his ability to portray a character with intelligence, ruthlessness, and vulnerability — qualities that would translate easily to James Bond. His British-Nigerian heritage could bring a fresh, modern touch to 007 without straying from the core of the character. Idris carries himself with the confidence and style that Bond demands, and while he might not yet be a household name like some contenders, that could be just what makes him such a great fit for the role.

• Nationality: British
• Age: 29 (June 1, 1996)
• Famous for: Spider-Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Uncharted, The Crowded Room
• Bond Credentials: Global star with action credentials, youthful energy, & box-office appeal

Though he may seem like an unconventional choice for 007, Tom Holland has openly shown interest in the role and even pitched a Bond origin story to producers a few years ago. Best known as Spider-Man, he has already demonstrated he can lead billion-dollar blockbusters and manage demanding stunt work with ease. His natural charm and quick wit make him an instant fan favourite, though his boyish image could be both an advantage and a challenge when stepping into Bond’s polished shoes. Still, the franchise has never shied away from reinvention, and with his global star power and versatility, Holland could eventually evolve into a version of Bond that redefines the spy for a new generation.

• Nationality: British
• Age: 31 (June 7, 1994)
• Famous for: The Underground Railroad, Old, Brother, Marvel’s upcoming Blade
• Bond Credentials: Rising star with commanding screen presence & emotional depth

Aaron Pierre is one of the most exciting young actors to emerge from Britain in recent years, and he has the striking presence that makes him a natural contender for James Bond. His breakout role in Barry Jenkins’ The Underground Railroad showcased his dramatic range, while appearances in Old and the award-winning Brother proved he can bring both intensity and vulnerability to the screen. Soon to join the Marvel universe in Blade, Pierre is on the verge of global stardom, making him an intriguing choice for producers seeking a fresh face to lead Bond into a new era. With his magnetic charisma and commanding screen presence, Aaron Pierre could be the unexpected choice that redefines 007 for the next generation.

• Nationality: British
• Age: 37 (April 25, 1988)
• Famous for: Bridgerton, Fellow Travellers, Wicked
• Bond Credentials: Charismatic leading man with sophistication, charm, & strong global recognition

Best known for his role as Anthony in Bridgerton, Bailey has already proven he can embody charm, elegance, and quiet authority — qualities that naturally suit 007. His recent performance in Fellow Travellers demonstrated his ability to balance vulnerability with intensity, providing him with the range needed for a character as layered as Bond. With polished good looks, a rising international profile, and the charisma to command the screen, he might not be the most obvious choice compared to action-focused contenders, but that could work to his advantage. Sometimes Bond works best when a rising star is transformed into a global icon, and Bailey has the sophistication and talent to make that leap.

• Nationality: British
• Age: 43 (January 6, 1982)
• Famous for: The Theory of Everything, The Danish Girl, Fantastic Beasts series
• Bond Credentials: Academy Award-winning actor with elegance, intensity, & proven dramatic range

He might not be the first name that comes to mind when picturing James Bond, but that could be what makes Eddie Redmayne an intriguing option. Known for his chameleon-like ability to disappear into roles, from Stephen Hawking in The Theory of Everything to Newt Scamander in Fantastic Beasts, Redmayne has demonstrated he can add depth and nuance to complex characters. His polished presence, defined features, and undeniable elegance fit well into the Bond mould, although his career has focused more on dramatic and fantastical storytelling rather than high-octane action. Still, if the producers wanted a 007 who combines sophistication with emotional depth — more in line with Daniel Craig’s brooding reinvention — Eddie Redmayne could surprise audiences and add an unexpected edge to the world’s most famous spy.

• Nationality: Australian
• Age: 28 (June 26, 1997)
• Famous for: Euphoria, Saltburn, Priscilla, The Kissing Booth
• Bond Credentials: Commanding screen presence, emerging star with international recognition, demonstrated versatility

Jacob Elordi has quickly become one of Hollywood’s most talked-about young actors, transitioning from a teen heartthrob in The Kissing Booth to critically acclaimed roles in Saltburn and Priscilla. Standing at 6’5″, he certainly has the physical presence to command a room — or an action scene — and his combination of brooding intensity and quiet charm has made him a standout among his peers. However, with Denis Villeneuve reportedly looking for someone from the British Isles, Elordi’s Australian roots might prevent him from being in the official considerations. Still, in the eyes of fans, he embodies many qualities that make a great James Bond: tall, stylish, magnetic, and capable of shifting effortlessly between vulnerability and menace. If the producers ever decide to relax the nationality rule, Jacob Elordi would be an exciting choice for 007.

• Nationality: British
• Age: 36 (February 24, 1989)
• Famous for: Get Out, Judas and the Black Messiah, Black Panther
• Bond Credentials: Academy Award-winning actor with intensity, charisma, & proven action experience

Daniel Kaluuya has already shown the world he can do it all — from Oscar-winning dramatic performances to blockbuster action roles. His breakout role in Get Out established him as one of the most compelling actors of his generation, and his portrayal of W’Kabi in Black Panther demonstrated he can hold his own in large-scale action scenes. Kaluuya offers a unique blend of gravitas and quiet cool, which could translate beautifully into a darker, more introspective James Bond.

At 35, he fits perfectly into Denis Villeneuve’s rumored vision for a younger, fresher 007, and his versatility as an actor would enable him to balance the sophistication and ruthlessness that Bond demands. Casting Kaluuya would be a bold and timely move — a chance to expand Bond’s legacy while remaining true to the essence of the character. With his natural charisma and commanding presence, Daniel Kaluuya is not just a contender; he is one of the few actors who could instantly redefine what James Bond looks like for the modern era.

• Nationality: American
• Age: 34 (August 17, 1991)
• Famous for: Elvis, Dune: Part Two, Masters of the Air
• Bond Credentials: Rising Hollywood star with charisma, intensity, & proven ability to lead blockbuster films

Fresh off his Oscar-nominated turn as Elvis Presley and a standout performance in Dune: Part Two, Austin Butler has become one of the most talked-about young actors in Hollywood. He brings a mix of raw energy and refined charm that could translate seamlessly into the role of James Bond. While American actors haven’t traditionally taken on the role, Butler has already shown he can master accents and carry the weight of iconic characters. His rise feels unstoppable, and if the Bond producers were ever willing to break from tradition, Butler would be a compelling choice who could draw in a global audience.

• Nationality: British
• Age: 39 (May 13, 1986)
• Famous for: Twilight, The Batman, Tenet
• Bond Credentials: Dark, brooding charisma with blockbuster & arthouse credibility

From a brooding vampire in Twilight to Gotham’s caped crusader in The Batman, Robert Pattinson has transformed himself into one of the most adaptable actors of his generation. He has the mystery, intensity, and quiet charm to fit into Bond’s tailored tuxedo, while his experience with action and psychological depth makes him a strong contender. Pattinson also boasts a large global following, ensuring box office appeal, but unlike some of the younger contenders, he already carries the gravitas of a leading man capable of commanding both franchise films and auteur-driven projects. That combination could make him one of the boldest and most exciting choices for 007.

• Nationality: British-American
• Age: 42 (August 20, 1983)
• Famous for: The Amazing Spider-Man, Tick, Tick… Boom!, Hacksaw Ridge
• Bond Credentials: Acclaimed actor with range, emotional depth, & proven blockbuster experience

With an Oscar nomination and a fanbase that still fondly remembers him as Spider-Man, Andrew Garfield has earned both critical praise and box office credibility. He offers emotional depth and vulnerability that could make for a more nuanced James Bond, while still exuding the charisma needed for the suave, refined side of 007. Although he may not be the most obvious choice among action stars, Garfield’s talent for reinventing himself with each role suggests he could deliver a Bond character that is complex, charming, and quietly dangerous.

With Amazon now overseeing 007’s future and Denis Villeneuve taking on the director’s role, the search for the next Bond feels less like a typical casting process and more like the start of a thriller. Insiders indicate Villeneuve isn’t after a Hollywood superstar but a “fresh face” — someone British who could redefine the role for years to come. Amazon’s billion-dollar investment reflects their long-term vision, aiming for a Bond who can lead multiple films and shape a new era of storytelling.

This points to a different kind of casting process, one that favors discovery over familiarity. Villeneuve has built his reputation on creating sprawling, visually rich epics, and he seems eager to find an actor who isn’t already weighed down by another blockbuster franchise. Think of how Daniel Craig surprised audiences in 2006 — not the obvious choice at the time, but the perfect one. That’s the energy Villeneuve appears to be chasing.

So, who do Amazon and Villeneuve want for Bond? Someone unexpected—someone with the charm, danger, and mystery to wear the tuxedo without being overshadowed by previous roles. The official search won’t start until 2026, but one thing is certain — the reveal will be as dramatic as any Bond twist, and the next 007 could very well be a name the world hasn’t yet heard of.

What we know about the next James Bond remains largely a mystery, but a few key details have emerged. The franchise is entering a bold new chapter under Amazon Studios, with Denis Villeneuve slated to direct the upcoming film and bring his distinctive cinematic style to 007. Producers have indicated they want a fresh face from the British Isles, ideally someone relatively unknown who can make the role their own, while rumours continue to circulate about several high-profile contenders. One thing’s certain: casting the new Bond will be a challenging task. The actor taking on the role must embody timeless charm while also showing modern vulnerability and emotional depth, all while carrying one of the most iconic action franchises in history. No pressure at all.

The question of who will be the next James Bond has divided fans for years. Daniel Craig was 38 when he first took on the role in Casino Royale, and he went on to embody 007 for 15 years, showing that the right actor can shape the franchise for over a decade. Producers are searching for someone who can do the same — an actor young enough to commit to multiple films, but mature enough to carry Bond’s gravitas from the outset.

Insiders suggest that Denis Villeneuve might be considering a “fresh face” for the role, likely someone in their late 20s or early 30s. That age range offers the perfect mix of youthful energy and worldly sophistication. However, history has demonstrated that Bond casting doesn’t adhere to strict rules. George Lazenby was only 29, while Roger Moore was 45 when he first took on the role of 007, so the key factor is the actor’s presence, not just their age. What’s most important is finding an actor who can confidently wear the tuxedo and uphold the legacy as they step into a new era.

Finding the right James Bond has never been just about ticking boxes. The best 007s have always combined danger with charm, presenting themselves as men you’d aspire to be and men you’d never want to cross. From Sean Connery’s magnetic swagger to Daniel Craig’s gritty realism, each Bond balances sophistication with a touch of unpredictability, reminding us that the spy is as much about charisma as he is about combat skills.

That balance is why Aaron Taylor-Johnson’s name keeps emerging as a top contender. He has the proven action credentials, the sharp style, and now even the Omega partnership — a nod to Bond’s signature watch — which makes him look almost tailor-made for the role. Yet even with all the speculation, the ideal Bond isn’t defined solely by looks or resumes. He needs to enter a room and command it without words, slip into a tuxedo as if it were made for him, and deliver a quip moments after surviving a firefight. He should seem believable as a killer but irresistible as a gentleman. Whoever takes on the role next must convince us they are James Bond — suave, dangerous, timeless, and always one step ahead.