Gary Oldman is currently creating a bit of a media maelstrom currently as he stated that the successor to Daniel Craig's 007 has already been secured.
Out promoting a new season of Slow Horses, Goldman was asked about the chances of his co-star Jack Lowden and stated [via Deadline], "It’s been rumored that he’s on the shortlist. We’re going to find out pretty soon, aren’t we? Because they have picked him. They have made their choice, but they have not announced it yet. So my fingers are crossed for Jack."
Back in August, television presenter Richard Osman stated that he'd heard from inside sources that Lowden was the next actor to join Her Majesty's Secret Service.
That was a month after producer Amy Pascal hinted during the Spider-Man: Brand New Day press tour in July that an official announcement on the identity of the new James Bond would drop by the end of the year. As we approach the fall, time is running out.
Pascal and David Heyman are producing the reboot for Amazon MGM following the departure of Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson.
With Denis Villeneuve (Dune) directing and a 2027 shoot in mind, the studio is hunting for a younger star (20s–30s) to anchor the franchise long-term.
For reference, Daniel Craig was 37 when he began his run as James Bond in Casino Royale (2005) and 53 when No Time To Die was released in 2021, so that should give a clear-cut example of what the studio is hoping to recreate with the next Bond actor.
In addition to Lowden, names like Jacob Elordi (Saltburn, Euphoria), Callum Turner (Eternity, One Night Only), and Harris Dickinson (Baby Girl, The Iron Claw), are currently buzzing near the top of the list.
In addition to Villeneuve's role as director, Steven Knight (Peaky Blinders, Locke) previously wrote a draft of the script.
However, it's expected that once Villeneuve wraps up his filming and promotional obligations on the third Dune film, he'll put all of his focus on Bond and will likely put his own creative stamp on the script.
Previously, Villeneuve stated, "I grew up watching James Bond films with my father, ever since Dr. No with Sean Connery. I'm a die-hard Bond fan.To me, he's sacred territory. I intend to honor the tradition and open the path for many new missions to come. This is a massive responsibility, but also, incredibly exciting for me and a huge honor."