What's happened
The search for the next James Bond is intensifying in early 2026, with Callum Turner now the favorite to take on the iconic role. Denis Villeneuve will direct, and Steven Knight will write the script. Several contenders are vying for the part, which will be a career-defining opportunity for the chosen actor.
What's behind the headline?
The current focus on Callum Turner as the frontrunner reflects a broader shift in the Bond casting landscape, where traditional favorites are being challenged by emerging talents. The involvement of high-profile director Denis Villeneuve and writer Steven Knight suggests a desire for a fresh, cinematic approach. The narrowing of contenders indicates that the decision will likely be announced soon, with Turner’s rising odds signaling industry confidence in his suitability. This casting will significantly impact the franchise's future, potentially redefining the character for a new generation. The choice of actor will also influence the film's tone and audience reception, making this one of the most consequential casting decisions in recent Bond history.
What the papers say
The Scotsman reports that Callum Turner is now the favorite with odds at 5/6, surpassing other contenders like Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Anthony Boyle. The article highlights the significance of the role and the ongoing casting process, which is being closely watched by fans and bookmakers alike. The previous article from December 31, 2025, detailed the broader context of the casting, including the involvement of Denis Villeneuve and Steven Knight, and the historical importance of the role. Both sources emphasize the high stakes and the anticipation surrounding the announcement, with bookmakers' odds serving as a key indicator of industry confidence. The Scotsman's coverage underscores the role's career-defining potential and the franchise's strategic direction under new creative control.
How we got here
The upcoming Bond film, scheduled for 2027, will be directed by Denis Villeneuve with Steven Knight scripting. The role of 007 has historically been played by seven actors, with Daniel Craig being the most recent. The casting process has been highly scrutinized, especially after Amazon MGM Studios took full creative control, leading to increased speculation about who will succeed Daniel Craig.
Go deeper
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Steven Knight CBE is a British screenwriter and film director. Knight wrote the screenplays for the films Closed Circuit, Dirty Pretty Things, and Eastern Promises, and also directed as well as wrote the films Locke and Hummingbird.
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Denis Villeneuve OC CQ is a French Canadian film director, producer, and screenwriter. He is a four-time recipient of the Canadian Screen Award for Best Direction, for Maelström in 2001, Polytechnique in 2009, Incendies in 2011 and Enemy in 2013.
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Daniel Wroughton Craig ( CRAYG; born 2 March 1968) is an English actor. He gained international fame by playing the fictional secret agent James Bond in the film Casino Royale (2006), Quantum of Solace (2008), Skyfall (2012), Spectre (2015), and No Time..
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Callum Robilliard Turner (born 15 February 1990) is an English actor. After working as a fashion model, he began working in film and television. He had lead roles in the drama film Queen and Country (2014) and the mystery miniseries Glue (2014), and playe