It seems this week's report about James Bond 26's final screen tests having taken place was a tad premature, as the trades have now weighed in and set the record straight on what's going on. However, it is true that the new 007 has nearly been found.
We'll start with Deadline, which was first to break the news that final auditions are underway, with screen tests beginning this Friday through next week with the finalists. At least four test offers have gone out, with three of them now named as Jack Lowden (Slow Horses), Callum Turner (One Night Only), and Josh O'Connor (The Crown).
Tests were originally planned for earlier this month, but scheduling conflicts led to the change (it sounds like producers want them to take place around the same time).
The Hollywood Reporter has also weighed in, claiming that up to five actors could be in the mix to play Bond. While Jack O'Connell (Sinners) was rumoured to be in the mix, that's not the case. As for Frankenstein star Jacob Elordi, he's also not testing, despite recent reports to the contrary.
The trade explains, "It is also unclear how involved these tests are, but they are understood to be comprehensive. Sources say there will be three components — stunts, camera presence and dialogue."
Amazon declined to comment, and instead pointed to its previous statement: "The search for the next James Bond is underway. While we don’t plan to comment on specific details during the casting process, we’re excited to share more news with 007 fans as soon as the time is right."
Nina Gold (Game of Thrones) has been tapped as casting director, with Denis Villeneuve (Dune) set to direct the movie from a script by Steven Knight (Peaky Blinders). David Heyman and Amy Pascal are the franchise's new producers, taking over from Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson after they stepped aside.
Bond is one of the most coveted roles in Hollywood, but it's a job that comes with a lot of expectations, especially as the actor will have to follow in the footsteps of iconic takes from actors like Daniel Craig, Pierce Brosnan, and Sean Connery.
For 007 purists, the fact that only British actors are being eyed for the role will come as a relief. This should go some way in putting aside fears that Amazon will "Americanise" the franchise.
Keep checking back here for updates on James Bond 26 as we have them.