AmazonMGM has named Denis Villeneuve the next director of the James Bond film, adding to the excitement around the upcoming movie.

Although details about the production are few and far between, speculation is rife regarding who will be cast in the leading role of 007.

While casting is still thought to be underway, Villeneuve’s appointment may suggest that steps are finally being taken to move the production forward.

With that in mind, there’s a good chance that we’ll soon be hearing about which actor has been cast in the coveted role of the next James Bond.

It’s been four years since Daniel Craig fronted the latest James Bond film, No Time To Die, but questions now remain as to who will step into his shoes in the newest film.

A lot of names have been floated about for the role, including Aaron Taylor-Johnson, who is enjoying considerable success over his recent stint in 28 Years Later, and Rebel Ridge star Aaron Pierre.

So, what do we know about the potential Bond candidates? Here is who might be in the running.

Top contenders to be the next James Bond

Aaron Taylor-Johnson (aged 34)

Aaron Taylor-Johnson secretly auditioned for the role before (Getty Images for Campari)

Aaron Taylor-Johnson already has a taste for action, starring in fast-paced films including the Kick-Ass franchise and Marvel’s Avengers. So, it’s no surprise that speculation has been following the actor over becoming the next Bond.

He reportedly met producers and impressed them during a secret audition after Daniel Craig’s exit in 2021. It seems he’s only solidified his chances, having filmed the memorable “gun-barrel teaser footage” and emerged as a front-runner. Puck News’s Matthew Belloni reported that sources said Taylor-Johnson ticked all the boxes, though his upcoming roles in Kraven the Hunter and The Fall Guy could potentially jeopardise his chances.

Theo James (aged 40)

Theo James has called for action to protect refugees from the impact of climate change (Aaron Chown/PA) (PA Archive)

While James has, for now, doused any remaining sparks of Bond rumours, we’re not ready to give up.

Not only is he the right age for the role, but his performances as roguish, morally ambiguous characters in Mike White’s The White Lotus and Guy Ritchie’s The Gentlemen make him an ideal candidate—perfect training for stepping into the shoes of 007.

The bookies have also placed him pretty high in the odds of getting chosen for the role.

Aaron Pierre (aged 31)

Aaron Pierre, the voice of Mufasa, said he hopes that ‘the great’ late James Earl Jones, who originated the character, would be proud (Ian West/PA) (PA Wire)

British actor Aaron Pierre is also reportedly in the running for the coveted role after an industry insider recently dropped his name. Known for starring in Netflix’s Rebel Ridge, Mufasa: The Lion King and Old, the London local would be an incredible choice for the legendary British spy.

While rumours are swirling, Pierre is yet to address the claims that he’s being considered for the role. However, he’s fast becoming one of the bookies' favourites, with 5/1 odds currently placing him in the role.

While Taylor-Johnson is still the bookies' favourite, Pierre might certainly be one to watch as we edge closer to the casting announcement.

Josh O’Connor (aged 35)

Josh O’Connor is a contender after a great 2024 (Dave Hogan / Shutterstock)

There has been considerable speculation that Josh O'Connor could be the next James Bond. Of the rumours, he told Deadline: “The truth is that … I think in the space of a week, I made a joke about, wouldn’t it be funny if I played Bond? Then, me and Daniel [Craig] did an Actors on Actors, and then something else happened, and suddenly I was James Bond. If I am Bond, I don’t know about it.”

The 34-year-old British actor would be an excellent choice. He’s had an incredible 2024, receiving widespread praise for his performance in the Golden Globe-nominated film Challengers, where he starred alongside Zendaya and Mike Faist.

Stuart Martin (aged 39)

Stuart Martin with his actress wife Lisa McGrillis (PA Archive)

Scottish actor Stuart Martin has reportedly caught the eye of Hollywood executives, positioning him as a serious contender to succeed Craig as Bond. The actor, who hails from Ayrshire, is not as widely recognised as some other names in the mix. However, his extensive acting experience over the past decade has earned him the attention of Barbara Broccoli and her half-brother Michael G. Wilson, the producers behind the Bond films at Eon Productions.

Martin has built a solid career with roles in Jamestown, where he played the lead role of Silas Sharrow, and The Woman in White. He also starred in Black Mirror and has appeared in The Rook, showcasing his versatility across various genres. Despite being relatively under the radar compared to other frontrunners, Martin’s growing reputation and strong performances have made him a dark horse in the race to become the next 007.

Callum Turner (aged 35)

Callum Turner was a model before he turned to acting (REUTERS)

A rising star, Callum Turner has captivated audiences with his roles in Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald and The Boys in the Boat. His physicality, charm, and strong screen presence make him an ideal candidate for the role of James Bond.

Turner, who hails from London, brings a fresh and engaging perspective to the characters he plays, which could breathe new life into the famous 007 persona. His youthfulness also allows him to commit to the role for many years, ensuring the franchise’s continuity. With his blend of talent, charisma, and growth potential, Turner has quickly become a frontrunner in the race to succeed Craig.

Regé-Jean Page (aged 37)

The Bridgerton star remains a favourite (Getty Images)

Still one of the bookies’ front-runners to play the deadpan superspy, Bridgerton star Page's portrayal of the sullen, smouldering Duke of Hastings suggests he could master the more brooding aspects of Bond. His effortless ability to raise a single eyebrow and exude an air of stoic charm makes him a strong contender for the role, with his on-screen persona fitting the mould of an opportunistic, suave 007.

However, while these qualities have firmly placed Page as one of the favourites, he has refrained from adding fuel to the speculation. In an interview with Vanity Fair, the British actor said the prospect of playing the iconic British spy did not occupy “his thoughts”.

He added: “It’s a conversation people are having, and it’s terribly flattering that they’re having it. I leave them to it. I’ve got enough on my plate at the moment. I worry about the work I have, not other people’s jobs.”

Despite his modest comments, the buzz around Page's potential for the role continues to grow.

James Norton (aged 39)

James Norton has been a favourite to replace Bond from the start ((Danny Lawson/PA))

Norton, best known for his role in McMafia, was initially touted as an early favourite to become the next Bond. With a career that includes playing a murderous psychopath (Tommy Lee Royce in Happy Valley) and a disillusioned aristocratic soldier (Prince Andrei Bolkonsky in War & Peace), Norton certainly has the intensity and depth of character that could make him a strong fit for the role of the dead-eyed superspy.

In an interview with Gentleman’s Journal, Norton addressed the ongoing speculation about his potential casting: “Bond’s such an icon and means so much to so many, so there’s an inevitable amount of speculation. But that’s as much as it is — speculation. Very flattering, very humbling speculation.”

While Norton is a strong candidate with his acting range and on-screen presence, he remains humble about the possibility, acknowledging the pressure and importance of the role.

Richard Madden (aged 39)

Richard Madden said the speculation is “all talk” (Getty Images)

Madden has made a name for himself with a diverse range of roles. From his portrayal of a Scottish Afghanistan war veteran in Bodyguard to his memorable stint as Robb Stark in Game of Thrones, Madden has shown he can handle complex, multifaceted characters. However, his performance as Elton John’s long-term manager and former lover, John Reid, in Rocketman truly showcased his potential to play an utterly ruthless, calculating character—qualities often associated with Bond’s enemies.

Despite his impressive range, many believe Madden would make a more compelling villain than a hero. His suave but cold nature lends itself well to the darker side of the Bond universe.

As for the Bond rumours, Madden took them in stride, offering a typically deadpan response: “It’s very flattering to be involved in that conversation at all. But it’s all talk and next week I’m sure it’ll be someone different.”

His calm and measured response only adds to his enigmatic persona. However, he remains focused on other projects, leaving the speculation to others.

Lashana Lynch (aged 37)

Lashana Lynch could be the first female Bond (Getty Images)

The announcement that Captain Marvel star Lashana Lynch was stepping into the “new 007” role sparked a wave of click-bait headlines, but the reality is more complex. The 37-year-old Londoner doesn't replace Bond, but takes on the iconic 007 operative number after Bond retires from MI6 in No Time To Die.

When the film was released in September 2021, Lynch’s portrayal of the sharp-witted agent, facing off against Daniel Craig's Bond, was a highlight, especially with Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s sharp one-liners. Waller-Bridge could be the perfect collaborator to give Lynch her own action franchise.

Jack Lowden (aged 35)

Jack Lowden admits he’s a huge Daniel Craig fan (Dave Benett)

Tom Hardy’s Dunkirk co-star Jack Lowden has also been mentioned as a potential replacement for Craig. However, the Scottish actor isn’t keen on stepping into the iconic role, mainly because he’s such a huge fan of Daniel Craig.

“I’m a massive Daniel Craig fan and I don’t think he should ever stop doing it,” Lowden said last year. “Bond dealing with age is a brilliant idea, and I think we should go the whole way until Daniel’s 85.”

Paapa Essiedu (aged 35)

Paapa Essiedu was the Royal Shakespeare’s first black Hamlet (AFP via Getty Images)

I May Destroy You’s Paapa Essiedu has skillfully avoided saying anything concrete about the rumours that he could be the next Bond in the vein of the spy himself. “I’ve got nothing for you. I know as much as you do. Ask Barbara Broccoli,” he told The Times before musing, “I wonder how many people have ever turned it down?”

He’s ready to roll, having showcased his acting chops as the Royal Shakespeare Company’s first black Hamlet, starred in The Effect at the National Theatre, and honed his skills in Gangs of London as Alex Dumani.

Damson Idris (aged 33)

Damson Idris joined the front runner list in 2024 (Getty Images)

In 2024, NME announced that Damson Idris had joined the ranks of front-runners for the role of Bond.

He hinted at his interest in playing the spy during a conversation with HipHollywood last year, saying: “I don’t know, do I look like I could play Bond? Well maybe it could happen. Who knows?”

While not a definitive statement, his experience in Outside the Wire (where he’s shown he can handle a gun) and his role as the lead in FX’s Snowfall demonstrate his suitability. The only issue? He might be a bit young for the part.

Out of the running (but we’re still hopeful)

Cillian Murphy (aged 49)

Cillian Murphy is best known for playing mercurial, dark characters (AFP via Getty Images)

Sure, Murphy might be a bit on the slim side at the moment — he shed weight for his Oscar-winning role as the brilliant yet troubled physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer.

But picture him bulked-up a little and playing an older Bond. It could be a brilliant fit.

Murphy is renowned for portraying complex, dark characters — qualities that would suit Bond perfectly. Plus, he has Craig’s striking blue eyes, which could add to the iconic look.

Harris Dickinson (aged 29)

Harris Dickson may be a bit young to play the role (Getty Images)

It’s a shame that Harris Dickinson is slightly too young to play Bond this time. He’s one of the few on this list who doesn’t give us even a hint of hesitation when we picture him in a suit, driving a Jaguar. The Leytonstone-born actor is rapidly becoming a rising star, thanks to standout roles in Ruben Östlund’s Oscar-nominated Triangle of Sadness (2022) and Charlotte Regan’s debut Scrapper (2023).

But there’s hope. In 10 years, he’ll still be young enough for the role, and he’s already shown interest, saying, “I mean, listen, man, you’d be a fool to not entertain that role,” in an interview with Total Film. See you in a decade, Dickinson.

Paul Mescal (aged 29)

Paul Mescal in 2023 (PA Archive)

Much of the same can be said for the Irish actor Mescal. While he may be too young to play Bond convincingly right now, that will likely change in two or three films. He has all the qualities of a Bond dream: handsome, scruffy, and endlessly charming, with a dangerously appealing lopsided smile.

Mescal has already bulked up for Ridley Scott’s upcoming Gladiator sequel, so he could easily do it again for the role of 007.

Henry Cavill (aged 42)

Henry Cavill auditioned for James Bond back in 2006 ((Ian West/PA))

Half the internet thinks it’s a great idea, but it’s hard to picture Cavill as the roguish spy: Bond is distinctly not Superman. However, Cavill’s schedule has freed up since stepping down from The Witcher and with DC going in a new direction with Kal-El. Putting his occasionally cringeworthy Instagram videos aside, he now has much “experience” that Wilson sought.

Cavill auditioned for Bond in 2006, with Casino Royale director Martin Campbell praising his acting as “tremendous”. Campbell said: “If Daniel didn’t exist, Henry would have made an excellent Bond. He just looked a little young at that time.”

A strong contender then, if producers overlook the fact that he’s now crossed the 40-mark.

Luke Evans (aged 46)

Luke Evans has lots of experience in action roles making him a suitable candidate (Dave Benett)

The Welsh actor and singer has a lot going for him. First and foremost, he’s not 26. He’s also six feet tall, looks sharp in a suit, and has much experience in action roles. He played Apollo in Clash of the Titans in 2010 and has since appeared in several Fast & Furious films, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, and Luc Besson’s Anna.

So, have we found the perfect candidate? Well, he’s four years over Wilson’s new age limit, which might, unfortunately, make him a bit too old for the role.

Tom Hardy (aged 47)

Tom Hardy appears to be more of the likely candidates (AFP via Getty Images)

With his thrilling mix of posh charm and rough-around-the-edges persona, Hardy is perhaps one of the most fitting actors for Bond. He has that rare combination of sophistication and danger, making him utterly believable as the iconic spy.

You can easily imagine women swooning at the sight of him, just as much as you can picture him throttling a double-crossing agent with his bare hands, all while enjoying a full English breakfast. Age aside, Hardy seems one of the more likely candidates for the role, though producer Broccoli is typically staying tight-lipped.

Sam Heughan (aged 45)

Sam Heughan is mostly associated with The Outlander (Getty Images for Tribeca Festiva)

Outlander star Heughan, who spent as much time shirtless in five seasons of the increasingly darker series as Bond has in 58 years and 27 films, sparked a flurry of online excitement in 2022 when he casually stated that, yes, if asked, he would take on the role of the superspy. Hold the front page!

To his credit, Heughan also pointed out that “any reasonably well-known British actor who’s worn a suit instantly has their name thrown into the ring by fans,” a sensible perspective.

While he's no longer in his 30s, Heughan still boasts a youthful appearance, though he could easily pull off the suave, debonair Bond look.

Tom Hiddleston (aged 44)

Tom Hiddleston is best known for playing Loki on Disney Plus (Getty Images)

Tom Hiddleston has largely steered clear of the rumours about him becoming Bond. “No one has talked to me about it,” he told Graham Norton in 2016.

That said, Hiddleston is far more suited to playing the heroically deadpan, sarcastic God of Mischief, Loki, than the more brooding, quip-less modern Bond. His effortless charm and wit are more fitting for the former role than the stoic superspy.

While Hiddleston’s experience in high-profile roles such as The Night Manager and the Avengers franchise certainly showcases his range, his style seems better suited to a character with more humour and flair than the traditional Bond.

Idris Elba (aged 52)

Idris Elba claims he’s ‘too old’ to take on the role (Jeff Spicer/Getty Images)

Idris Elba, the British actor best known for his roles in Luther and The Wire, has been a long-standing favourite to succeed Daniel Craig as James Bond since Craig first hinted at stepping down in 2015. His intense screen presence and charisma have made him a popular pick among fans, including rapper Stormzy, who referenced Elba’s potential Bond chances in his 2019 single Vossi Bop.

Despite widespread speculation and support, the 51-year-old has consistently downplayed the rumours, claiming that he's “too old” for the role. And, unfortunately, it seems that this sentiment has been echoed by the Bond producers, effectively closing the door on Elba’s chances of taking on the esteemed role. Sigh.

Harry Styles (aged 31)

The singer broke into the acting world with Dunkirk (Getty Images)

Harry Styles, the British singer-turned-actor, has already shown impressive promise in his acting career. After gaining fame as a One Direction member, he ventured into acting with a notable role in Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk, portraying a young British soldier. His transition to acting continued in 2022, starring in Olivia Wilde’s Don’t Worry Darling alongside Florence Pugh and Chris Pine, and in My Policeman, based on Bethan Roberts’ novel, where he plays a gay policeman caught in a love triangle with his wife (Emma Corrin) and another man (David Dawson).

There’s something about Styles’s supremely confident, easygoing charm that could make him an intriguing choice for James Bond. Though he may be slightly young for the role, Styles’s effortless masculinity and lack of concern with gender norms could present a refreshing, modern take on the superspy. With his laid-back yet confident style, he could be the perfect Bond for a new era, perhaps even paving the way for a more fluid interpretation of 007.

Alexander Skarsgård (aged 48)

Alexander Skarsgård as Tarzan (Tarzan/Warner Bros)

Alexander Skarsgard could present a Swedish James Bond, a super spy who has all the hallmarks of a Bond character, including a tuxedo, a license to kill, and a way with the ladies, but with a distinctively Scandinavian flair.

The Big Little Lies star discussed the topic in an interview with The Times of London, explaining that he had previously enlisted in his nation's national service, saying, “I did it because I was 19, I didn’t know what I wanted to do and I wanted to be James Bond for 18 months.”

Skarsgard entered the spirit of the offering, expressing his excitement about the possibility of bringing this concept to the big screen:

“I could be a very polite, diplomatic Swedish James Bond, who negotiates. There’ll be no violence at all. It’ll just be boardroom meetings where people try to find consensus, everyone’s stressed out and desperately tries to avoid an argument or complications, that’s very Swedish. I’ll pitch it!.”

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