As a testatment to the popularity of the 007 franchise, despit the fact that we're likely many years out from cameras rolling on any sort of James Bond reboot, social media and entertainment channels are absolutely enthralled with the transition of Amazon assumming control of the franchise and the casting process of who will succeed Daniel Craig.
Denis Villeneuve was recently tapped to direct the upcoming James Bond reboot for Amazon MGM, news that was quickly followed by the release of a shortlist of actors being considered to succeed Daniel Craig in the iconic role.
The list of potential actors to take over as James Bond includes Tom Holland, widely recognized for his role as Spider-Man in the MCU, who tops the shortlist at 29 years old. He is joined by fellow rising stars Jacob Elordi, 28, and Harris Dickinson, also 29. More recently, Scott Rose-Marsh (37) was also mentioned to be in the mix.
Reports indicate that Amazon MGM is seeking a James Bond who is young enough to carry the role for many years, potentially even decades. For context, Daniel Craig was 37 when he debuted as Bond in Casino Royale (2005) and 53 when No Time To Die premiered in 2021, highlighting the potential longevity the next actor will need to possess to step into the shoes of the iconic role.
A rather unconventional idea gaining traction is the possibility of casting an American as James Bond. Advocates of this surprising approach have suggested actors like Glen Powell as potential candidates for the iconic role.
However, speaking recently to The Hollywood Reporter, Powell stated that he doesn't think he's the right fit.
“I’m Texan. A Texan should not play James Bond,” Powell told THR. “My family and I joke around, I can play Jimmy Bond, but I should not be playing James Bond. Get an authentic Brit for that job. That’s who belongs in that tuxedo.”
Alongside Denis Villeneuve directing, Steven Knight, known for Peaky Blinders and Locke, has been tapped to write the script.
Once Villeneuve completes filming and promotional duties for the third Dune installment, he is expected to fully dedicate himself to the Bond project, likely leaving his own creative mark on the screenplay. Filming for Dune: Part Three started last month, with the film currently having a December 2026 release date.
UPDATE: Austin Butler, while on his press tour to promote his upcoming action comedy Caught Stealing, was also asked about whether he had any desire to play Bond. Butler also agreed that it's a role best reserved for a Brit, while also adding that he would be interested in playing a Bond villain.