By Sohaib Shams
Reports indicate that at least four actors have undergone screen tests for the role of James Bond, with testing held last weekend. While three candidates – Jack Lowden, Callum Turner, and Josh O’Connor – have been named by industry outlets, the identity of a fourth actor remains unconfirmed, fueling widespread speculation.
Three actors named in reports
Deadline and The Hollywood Reporter identified Lowden, Turner, and O’Connor as participants in the screen tests for the coveted role. The tests are part of the search for the next actor to portray 007 following Daniel Craig’s final appearance in “No Time to Die” (2021).
Mystery fourth candidate sparks speculation
The unnamed fourth actor has prompted online theories. Observers note that similar-sounding names may have caused confusion, and some suggest the reported list could be inaccurate.
Possible suspects
Among the names circulating as the mystery candidate are Jack O’Connell, though sources told The Hollywood Reporter he was not in the mix. Jack Barton, a 31-year-old actor known for “Heartstopper,” “Poor Things,” and “SAS: Rogue Heroes” – the latter written by new Bond screenwriter Steven Knight – has also been mentioned. Joe Alwyn has been suggested due to his longstanding connection with casting director Nina Gold.
Actors ruled out
Several high-profile actors have reportedly been excluded. Jacob Elordi was described as “not testing” by The Hollywood Reporter. Harris Dickinson reportedly withdrew from consideration, citing exhaustion from filming four Beatles movies back-to-back as John Lennon. Nicholas Hoult was also said not to be in the running.
New film details
The next Bond film will be directed by Denis Villeneuve. Amazon acquired MGM Studios in January 2025, taking control of the franchise.
